Daily Scripture: John 9:1 As Yeshua passed along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His talmidim asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned — this man or his parents — to cause him to be born blind?” 3 Yeshua answered, “His blindness is due neither to his sin nor to that of his parents; it happened so that God’s power might be seen at work in him.
Luke 13:1 Just then, some people came to tell Yeshua about the men from the Galil whom Pilate had slaughtered even while they were slaughtering animals for sacrifice. 2 His answer to them was, “Do you think that just because they died so horribly, these folks from the Galil were worse sinners than all the others from the Galil? 3 No, I tell you. Rather, unless you turn to God from your sins, you will all die as they did!
4 “Or what about those eighteen people who died when the tower at Shiloach fell on them? Do you think they were worse offenders than all the other people living in Yerushalayim? 5 No, I tell you. Rather, unless you turn from your sins, you will all die similarly.”
6 Then Yeshua gave this illustration: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came looking for fruit but didn’t find any. 7 So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘Here, I’ve come looking for fruit on this fig tree for three years now without finding any. Cut it down — why let it go on using up the soil?’ 8 But he answered, ‘Sir, leave it alone one more year. I’ll dig around it and put manure on it. 9 If it bears fruit next year, well and good; if not, you will have it cut down then.’”
Reflection Questions:People asked Jesus to explain the “why” of a man blind from birth, in one case, some Galileans killed by Roman soldiers in the other. Jesus’ reply in both instances showed that he knew evil often strikes at random. Those who suffer were not “singled out” to endure pain or loss. The open-ended parable he told in Luke 13:6-9 suggested human responsibility to “bear fruit,” not passive acceptance of anything that happens as “God’s will.”
- In John 9, Jesus was less concerned with trying to sort out who or what was to blame for the man’s blindness than he was with looking forward to how God’s power could work in the man’s life. What difficulties and challenges are you facing? How can you open “the eyes of your heart” to recognize and respond to God’s power at work in and through you?
- We could call Jesus’ story in Luke 13:6-9 “The Unfinished Parable.” The gardener asked for one more year to help the tree bear good fruit—but Jesus never said if the tree did or didn’t bear fruit. In 13:5 he challenged his hearers to “change your hearts and lives,” so it was clear what type of “fruit-bearing” was on his mind. So what about you--how will you finish Jesus' unfinished parable in your life?
Lord Jesus, I want my life to bear the kind of good fruit you desire, and that you are willing to grow in me. Keep me responsive to your guiding voice in my heart. Amen.Insights from Brandon Gregory
Brandon Gregory is a volunteer for the worship and missions teams at Church of the Resurrection. He helps lead worship at the Vibe, West, and Downtown services, and is involved with the Malawi missions team at home.
Today’s passages (John 9:1-3 and Luke 13:1-9) hit on two very different but ultimately related sides of God.
In the first passage and the first part of the second passage, we see God’s sense of justice. Jesus says nobody is any more or less deserving of bad things or good things, because we all have something wrong with us. God is not impressed with our apparent or relative sinlessness. God doesn’t look down and say, “Well, due to this man’s sin, I’m going to smite his children” because we’re all equally sinful in God’s eyes.
This is probably a familiar concept to most Christians. I hear this message a lot more than the second parable’s message.
While God doesn’t care so much about our apparent sinlessness, He cares greatly about the fruit we produce in our lives. This is not the only passage about God uprooting a tree that does not produce fruit. In fact, in Matthew 21, Jesus actually takes it up a notch and literally kills off a fig tree that is not producing fruit. An idle life that produces no fruit is something God takes very seriously.
So what does this mean? Will God judge us based on the fruit we produce? No. That’s not the way it works. In fact, as seen in this parable, God will give help and grace when fruit is not produced. But God will greatly bless those efforts that produce the most fruit.
When we look at ourselves and judge ourselves, we tend to look at our own intentions and actions. What these passages tell us is that we need to also take a hard look at what’s going on in the people around us. Are our coworkers and friends better off for knowing us? What about the people who work at stores or restaurants we frequent? God is changing us–that’s step one–but we should be changing the world around us–that’s the end goal. If there is no change in the world around us–if there is no fruit–then the change in your life has fallen short of its potential.
So remember that next time you interact with the random store clerk, coworker, or even fellow drivers on the road. Will they walk away better from their interactions with you? Try to make sure they do.
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection
13720 Roe Avenue
@scottchrostek
Congregational Care and Support
If you need pastoral care, call 816-979-1330 or for after hours emergencies, 816-875-0267.
To submit a prayer request, contact Todd.Maberry@rezdowntown.org
Connect and follow us:
Today’s passages (John 9:1-3 and Luke 13:1-9) hit on two very different but ultimately related sides of God.
In the first passage and the first part of the second passage, we see God’s sense of justice. Jesus says nobody is any more or less deserving of bad things or good things, because we all have something wrong with us. God is not impressed with our apparent or relative sinlessness. God doesn’t look down and say, “Well, due to this man’s sin, I’m going to smite his children” because we’re all equally sinful in God’s eyes.
This is probably a familiar concept to most Christians. I hear this message a lot more than the second parable’s message.
While God doesn’t care so much about our apparent sinlessness, He cares greatly about the fruit we produce in our lives. This is not the only passage about God uprooting a tree that does not produce fruit. In fact, in Matthew 21, Jesus actually takes it up a notch and literally kills off a fig tree that is not producing fruit. An idle life that produces no fruit is something God takes very seriously.
So what does this mean? Will God judge us based on the fruit we produce? No. That’s not the way it works. In fact, as seen in this parable, God will give help and grace when fruit is not produced. But God will greatly bless those efforts that produce the most fruit.
When we look at ourselves and judge ourselves, we tend to look at our own intentions and actions. What these passages tell us is that we need to also take a hard look at what’s going on in the people around us. Are our coworkers and friends better off for knowing us? What about the people who work at stores or restaurants we frequent? God is changing us–that’s step one–but we should be changing the world around us–that’s the end goal. If there is no change in the world around us–if there is no fruit–then the change in your life has fallen short of its potential.
So remember that next time you interact with the random store clerk, coworker, or even fellow drivers on the road. Will they walk away better from their interactions with you? Try to make sure they do.
13720 Roe Avenue
Leawood, Kansas 66224 United States
913.897.0120
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Blue Springs eNote from Pastor Penny Ellwood for Friday, 10 April 2015
Take a quick look at upcoming events/activites below:
School Drive
Prayer Course
Premarital Class
Teen Distracted Driving MINI Cooper Clinic
Mega Faithwork
Girls Night Out @ Genevieve's
KiDSCOR MiniCamps-Coming in June & July!
Greetings Resurrection Blue Springs,
Hello to you all on this beautiful Spring Friday! I've been smiling all week as I've recalled our Easter morning last Sunday. It was such an exciting day. Between our three worship services we had 705 in attendance (91 at 7:30 am, 352 at 9:00 am and 262 at 10:45 am). This was our biggest Easter yet and it was awesome. The 9 am was particularly exciting as I watched our hospitality team work hard to provide a warm welcome and seats for the overflowing crowd.
I want to say “thank you” to everyone who came out and celebrated Easter with us. I want to congratulate you too, for extending the invitations that brought so many new people to worship with us. God’s Spirit was definitely moving throughout our space and I am excited to see where it will lead us into the future.
I want to say a special thank you to all of our volunteers and our great staff for making Maundy Thursday and Easter worship possible. We had many volunteers who gave of their time and effort to welcome everyone in attendance and help spread the joy of Christ's resurrection to all. It is a privilege to work with such a committed community led by so many faithful people. Thank you!
This Sunday we begin a brand new sermon series revolving around the question, “Why?” For the next four weeks we’ll be focusing on tough questions of the faith, beginning with God and Suffering. We’ll be asking, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” I'm guessing that many of you know personally someone who is going through a struggle right now. This Sunday and the rest of the series would be a great opportunity for you to help offer them some hope. I encourage you to invite your friends and join us this weekend as we seek understanding during the difficult times of life.
In the meantime, here's a list of upcoming events. Don't forget to mark your calendar for the Mega-Mission event on April 25th!
Wendell Phillips School Drive
We are collecting items for students and teachers at Wendell Phillips, one of our partner school in the inner city. These items will be used for one of our Mega Faithwork projects for children on April 25th. Please bring these items and place them in either narthex. Thanks so much!
• Box of tissues
• Clorox wipes
• Dry erase markers
• New or gently-used children’s books (up through 6th grade)
The tissues, wipes and markers will be bundled up to give to the classroom teachers and the books will be tidied up to given to the students.
Prayer Course – Do we really know what it means to pray the Lord's Prayer? How can the prayer that Jesus taught enable us to have a richer prayer life? This six-week journey through the Lord's Prayer covers topics such as intercession, dealing with disappointment, learning to listen and spiritual warfare. Sessions include a meal, a short talk and discussion. Join us for this 6-week course meeting Wednesdays at 6:30 pm starting April 22. For more information and to register, visitrezbluesprings.org/alpha or contact Mike.Ash@cor.org.
Premarital Class-Thursdays, April 16 - May 14, 6:30 pm, Leawood B200 (also offered on weekends). Classes led by Rev. Glen Shoup for engaged or newly-married couples. This course is required to be married by a Resurrection pastor. Download required registration form online.
Teen Distracted Driving MINI Cooper Clinic - Saturday, April 18, 10 am - 2 pm at our Leawood campus in the Narthex and parking lot. Teens will go behind the wheel of a Mini Cooper to be instructed by professional race car drivers. Participants need valid driver's license or permit. Register for free clinic online.
Our First "Mega" FaithWork – Meet at Resurrection Blue Springs for a morning of service and community building on Saturday, April 25. We’ll start off at 8 am with a pancake breakfast. Then at 9 am, we’ll send out teams to serve at various locations in the near area. More information will be coming about the service opportunities. We will have several on-site opportunities for kids to serve as well. All participants will receive a brand new, extra awesome #serve water bottle and a morning filled with fun and meaning. Children, students and adults of all ages are welcome and encouraged to attend. Sign up at Guest Services or rezbluesprings.org/faithwork.
Girls Night Out @ Genevieve's Mark your calendar for a Girl's Night Out filled with some serious laughter, sweet treats, shopping, and a special craft project at Genevieve's Home & Handmade in Blue Springs. (Crafting experience is not necessary for this class!) All the supplies will be provided to create a one-of-a-kind mixed media canvas. The class is limited to 12 and the fee is $35. Payment must be made when you make your reservation at Guest Services. Class will be held at Genevieve's Home & Handmade, 1404 West Main, Blue Springs on Tuesday, April 28 at 6:15 pm.
KiDS COR MiniCamps
Praise Camp – June 19th & 20th
This camp is designed to teach kids how to Praise God with their Mind, Body and Soul. We will use everyday items as instruments to learn rhythm and beat. Campers will perform what they have learned Sunday morning June 21st for the church congregation. This camp is open to kids ages PreK to 5th Grade. We will share a meal Friday night and have a morning snack Saturday morning. There is a $5 fee per camper. Times are as follows: Friday 5:00pm-8:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm.
God Matters – July 17th & 18th
Campers will experience the slippery, slimy and even slurpy fun of science at this 2 day camp. A mad scientist will take us through the wonders of matter and how God talks to us through science. This camp is open to kids ages PreK-5th Grade. We will share a meal Friday night and have a morning snack Saturday morning. There is a $5 fee per camper. Times are as follows: Friday 5:00pm-8:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm.
Registration starts in May. For more information, contact Diane.Enlow@cor.org.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
Abundant Blessings,
Penny
For our Resurrection Blue Springs Campus Calendar: click here
Contact Our Staff:
Church Office Phone: (816)389-8900
Rev. Penny Ellwood, Campus Pastor penny.ellwood@cor.org
Mike Ash, Worship Leader/Director of Community mike.ash@cor.org
Diane Enlow, Director of Children's Ministry diane.enlow@cor.org
Clark Johnson, Technical Producer clark.johnson@cor.org
Heather Sooley, Operations Coordinating Assistant heather.sooley@cor.org
Stephanie Weigel, Guest Services Coordinating Assistant stephanie.weigel@cor.org
Caitlin Willis, Nursery Staff caitlin.willis@cor.org
Lori Wolverton, Nursery Staff lori.wolverton@cor.org
Visit us on the web:
www.rezbluesprings.org
www.facebook.com/rezbluesprings
For upcoming and ongoing programs and events at our Leawood Campus, visit www.cor.org.
Campus enotes: Leawood, Downtown, West
Resurrection Blue Springs
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Blue Springs eNote from Pastor Penny Ellwood for Friday, 10 April 2015
School Drive
Prayer Course
Premarital Class
Teen Distracted Driving MINI Cooper Clinic
Mega Faithwork
Girls Night Out @ Genevieve's
KiDSCOR MiniCamps-Coming in June & July!
Greetings Resurrection Blue Springs,
Hello to you all on this beautiful Spring Friday! I've been smiling all week as I've recalled our Easter morning last Sunday. It was such an exciting day. Between our three worship services we had 705 in attendance (91 at 7:30 am, 352 at 9:00 am and 262 at 10:45 am). This was our biggest Easter yet and it was awesome. The 9 am was particularly exciting as I watched our hospitality team work hard to provide a warm welcome and seats for the overflowing crowd.
I want to say “thank you” to everyone who came out and celebrated Easter with us. I want to congratulate you too, for extending the invitations that brought so many new people to worship with us. God’s Spirit was definitely moving throughout our space and I am excited to see where it will lead us into the future.
I want to say a special thank you to all of our volunteers and our great staff for making Maundy Thursday and Easter worship possible. We had many volunteers who gave of their time and effort to welcome everyone in attendance and help spread the joy of Christ's resurrection to all. It is a privilege to work with such a committed community led by so many faithful people. Thank you!
This Sunday we begin a brand new sermon series revolving around the question, “Why?” For the next four weeks we’ll be focusing on tough questions of the faith, beginning with God and Suffering. We’ll be asking, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” I'm guessing that many of you know personally someone who is going through a struggle right now. This Sunday and the rest of the series would be a great opportunity for you to help offer them some hope. I encourage you to invite your friends and join us this weekend as we seek understanding during the difficult times of life.
In the meantime, here's a list of upcoming events. Don't forget to mark your calendar for the Mega-Mission event on April 25th!
Wendell Phillips School Drive
We are collecting items for students and teachers at Wendell Phillips, one of our partner school in the inner city. These items will be used for one of our Mega Faithwork projects for children on April 25th. Please bring these items and place them in either narthex. Thanks so much!
• Box of tissues
• Clorox wipes
• Dry erase markers
• New or gently-used children’s books (up through 6th grade)
The tissues, wipes and markers will be bundled up to give to the classroom teachers and the books will be tidied up to given to the students.
Prayer Course – Do we really know what it means to pray the Lord's Prayer? How can the prayer that Jesus taught enable us to have a richer prayer life? This six-week journey through the Lord's Prayer covers topics such as intercession, dealing with disappointment, learning to listen and spiritual warfare. Sessions include a meal, a short talk and discussion. Join us for this 6-week course meeting Wednesdays at 6:30 pm starting April 22. For more information and to register, visitrezbluesprings.org/alpha or contact Mike.Ash@cor.org.
Premarital Class-Thursdays, April 16 - May 14, 6:30 pm, Leawood B200 (also offered on weekends). Classes led by Rev. Glen Shoup for engaged or newly-married couples. This course is required to be married by a Resurrection pastor. Download required registration form online.
Teen Distracted Driving MINI Cooper Clinic - Saturday, April 18, 10 am - 2 pm at our Leawood campus in the Narthex and parking lot. Teens will go behind the wheel of a Mini Cooper to be instructed by professional race car drivers. Participants need valid driver's license or permit. Register for free clinic online.
Our First "Mega" FaithWork – Meet at Resurrection Blue Springs for a morning of service and community building on Saturday, April 25. We’ll start off at 8 am with a pancake breakfast. Then at 9 am, we’ll send out teams to serve at various locations in the near area. More information will be coming about the service opportunities. We will have several on-site opportunities for kids to serve as well. All participants will receive a brand new, extra awesome #serve water bottle and a morning filled with fun and meaning. Children, students and adults of all ages are welcome and encouraged to attend. Sign up at Guest Services or rezbluesprings.org/faithwork.
Girls Night Out @ Genevieve's Mark your calendar for a Girl's Night Out filled with some serious laughter, sweet treats, shopping, and a special craft project at Genevieve's Home & Handmade in Blue Springs. (Crafting experience is not necessary for this class!) All the supplies will be provided to create a one-of-a-kind mixed media canvas. The class is limited to 12 and the fee is $35. Payment must be made when you make your reservation at Guest Services. Class will be held at Genevieve's Home & Handmade, 1404 West Main, Blue Springs on Tuesday, April 28 at 6:15 pm.
KiDS COR MiniCamps
Praise Camp – June 19th & 20th
This camp is designed to teach kids how to Praise God with their Mind, Body and Soul. We will use everyday items as instruments to learn rhythm and beat. Campers will perform what they have learned Sunday morning June 21st for the church congregation. This camp is open to kids ages PreK to 5th Grade. We will share a meal Friday night and have a morning snack Saturday morning. There is a $5 fee per camper. Times are as follows: Friday 5:00pm-8:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm.
God Matters – July 17th & 18th
Campers will experience the slippery, slimy and even slurpy fun of science at this 2 day camp. A mad scientist will take us through the wonders of matter and how God talks to us through science. This camp is open to kids ages PreK-5th Grade. We will share a meal Friday night and have a morning snack Saturday morning. There is a $5 fee per camper. Times are as follows: Friday 5:00pm-8:00pm, Saturday 9:00am-12:00pm.
Registration starts in May. For more information, contact Diane.Enlow@cor.org.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday!
Abundant Blessings,
Penny
For our Resurrection Blue Springs Campus Calendar: click here
Contact Our Staff:
Church Office Phone: (816)389-8900
Rev. Penny Ellwood, Campus Pastor penny.ellwood@cor.org
Mike Ash, Worship Leader/Director of Community mike.ash@cor.org
Diane Enlow, Director of Children's Ministry diane.enlow@cor.org
Clark Johnson, Technical Producer clark.johnson@cor.org
Heather Sooley, Operations Coordinating Assistant heather.sooley@cor.org
Stephanie Weigel, Guest Services Coordinating Assistant stephanie.weigel@cor.org
Caitlin Willis, Nursery Staff caitlin.willis@cor.org
Lori Wolverton, Nursery Staff lori.wolverton@cor.org
Visit us on the web:
www.rezbluesprings.org
www.facebook.com/rezbluesprings
For upcoming and ongoing programs and events at our Leawood Campus, visit www.cor.org.
Campus enotes: Leawood, Downtown, West
Resurrection Blue Springs
Resurrecton Blue Springs
13720 Roe Avenue
Leawood, Kansas 66224 United States
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection West eNote from Pastor Jason Gant for Friday, 10 April 2015
Resurrection West,
Proverbs 24:3-4 says that by wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. This scripture has been speaking to my heart for almost two years. As our building committee gathered time and time again this scripture shed light as we dreamed, made plans, began to think and re-think, asked the hard questions, and moved forward in our phase 2 building design. I said to our committee in July of 2013 - that I believed they themselves were the wisdom God had provided to do the important work of designing our next phase building. I also interpreted through prayer and guidance from the Holy Spirit that the established understanding is who we are at Resurrection. At our very core we understand that our mission is to build Christian community where non-religious and nominally religious people are becoming deeply committed Christians. The rooms being filled with rare and beautiful treasures are our people. We have names and God claims us as His children. We are every age and generation, some almost 100 years and others just days old.
This Sunday we begin a 3-week journey in a series called Branching Out: Making room for all. Along this journey, we will consider our legacy, determine our sacrifice, and make the commitment to continue God’s call to change lives, transform our community, and renew the Church. Click here to view and share the promo video for the series from our facebook page
I look forward to preaching these three Sundays and I can’t wait to grow with you. This Sunday we begin by showing the phase 2 building plans in detail, along with testimony and story as we consider the legacy of Resurrection West. There will be visual displays around the Sanctuary as well as a print packet and prayer card as you leave each service. I will be sharing with you where we are in our financial goal after the first 40 households have now made their commitments. They have set the example and pace for us all. This campaign is about equal sacrifice, not equal amounts. When we come together in this first act of worship, God will use it to build His kingdom beyond our imagination. The Lord will make room for all!
There are many events, activities, and invitations as a part of this campaign, all leading up to commitment Sunday, April 26th.The first invitation is to pray, followed closely by personal devotion time with God in scripture and meditation. Below is the prayer I have been inviting us all to pray as we move forward in these next three weeks.
Lord God, with humility, we look to You to provide the wisdom, understanding, and knowledge needed to accomplish your vision. We ask for a fresh empowering of your Holy Spirit to give us discernment, creativity, and clarity moving forward. Help us to identify and apply the resources you provide through the generous giving of your people. Help us to work efficiently and be faithful to the mission of your Church, Resurrection West. We look to the future with hope and are filled with joy as we branch out, making room for all. May this kingdom work strengthen our faith and increase our love for you and for one another. AMEN
You can also join the over 400 households who have been reading the daily devotional booklets we began handing out Easter weekend (children – don’t forget to bring in your “great commission art project” as described at the beginning of the booklet this Sunday). Click here to go to the branching out web-site to read digital uploads of the first five devotions from the booklet. You will also see great blogs from our staff team there. We will have plenty more booklets in worship on Sunday.
Next I invite you to make your presence in worship the highest priority the next three Sundays. Coming together in prayer, praise, and honor of God will be critical to the success of this campaign. The Spirit of God moves in His people when we come together every Sunday!
We’ve got some great mission and ministry coming up. Check these great opportunities to grow.
Church-wide MEGA DAY and family event at Olathe Community Center - April 25th
Rezlife cookout this Sunday!
Rezlife middle school mission trip - register now!
Rezlife high school mission trip - register now!
Mathew's Ministry Family night out April 10th
Pre-Baptism Class April 14th
Vacation Bible Camp 2015!
MEGA Day of Service, Learning and Fun – Saturday, April 25 – Begin the day by making a MEGA difference in our community. Meet at Resurrection West at 9 am for instructions, doughnut holes, coffee and prayer. We’ll be doing light house repair and yard work for the elderly, disabled and in-need in Olathe. Wear your favorite MEGA MISSION t-shirt (extras available for free that day). Bring work gloves, rakes, yard tools and family and friends for an awesome morning of caring for our neighbors. No need to sign up – just show up and serve. For more information, contact Chris.Holliday@cor.org.
Church-wide Branching Out Event – After MEGA MISSION, join us from noon – 2 pm at the Olathe Community Center. Enjoy lunch, crafts and activities, Resurrection Celebrity Jeopardy (featuring some of your favorite Vacation Bible Camp skit personalities), and a special presentation by Pastor Jason on how our next building phase is important to everyone – especially our children. At 2 pm, you are welcome to purchase a $6 per person swim pass and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at the Olathe Community Center Aquatic Park. For more information, contact Chris.Monson@cor.org.
Rezlife West Mission Trip Cookout THIS SUNDAY! Join us in supporting the High School Mission trip to Nashville. We will be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and desserts after the 10:45 am and 5 pm worship services. Do you attend the 9 am service and can’t make the cookout? We have breakfast pastries for you! Your prayers and support are much appreciated; all free-will donations will help offset the cost of our mission trip and other rezlife Student Ministry activities. More information on the mission trip and registration can be found at rezwest.org/nashvilletrip. Check out the rezlife summer flyer in the bulletin this Sunday to see all of the fun events happening this summer for our students at Resurrection West!
Rezlife West Middle School Summer Mission Trip to downtown KC – All Middle School students (incoming 6th-8th graders) are invited to join us July 20-24, as we work with Resurrection Downtown to serve the community in downtown Kansas City. Cost is $200 which includes transportation, meals and lodging. This is a great opportunity to serve God while having a lot of fun! Register atrezwest.org/students.
rezlife West High School Nashville Mission Trip – All high school students (incoming 9th graders – outgoing seniors) are invited to join us in Nashville, June 7-13, to serve various ministries in the area. Fun will be had by all! Cost is $275, which includes transportation, housing and all meals except for two traveling lunches. Register at rezwest.org/nashvilletrip. Also seeking adult volunteers to assist with – and enjoy – the trip. Contact Rick.Webb@cor.org to volunteer.
Matthew’s Ministry Family Night Out TONIGHT! – Friday, April 10. Parents of children with special needs can have an evening out while volunteers and staff care for the child with special needs and his or her siblings. This will be an evening of fun with crafts, games and friendship-building! A light meal is served, and parents may drop off their children at 5:30 pm or later, and return to sign them out by8 pm. Register your special needs child and their sibling(s) at rezwest.org/children. If you would like to serve as a volunteer for this event, contact Vicki.Holdman@cor.org.
Pre-Baptism Information Class – Holy Baptism is a covenant between an individual and God. If you are considering baptism, please attend this class Tuesday, April 14, 6:15 - 7:00pm, in our Sanctuary. Learn more at rezwest.org/baptism.
Vacation Bible Camp 2015 is coming! Join in the fun of “Disciple Me” at Resurrection West VBC June 22-25, and for Family Fun Night on Friday, June 26. Hundreds of kids join us every summer for a fun-filled VBC experience, and we need lots of volunteers to help it all come together! Your gifts and talents are needed for planning, teaching, organizing or leading. Adults who sign up to volunteer for the VBC week may register their children early at a discounted rate. Visit rezwest.org/vbc for more information and to sign up to serve.
Finally, this past weekend was a true “Kingdom Party”. So many of you served to help make Easter weekend a thin space (where heaven meets earth)! Everything began with our Egg Hunt, where we welcomed hundreds and hundreds of people to celebrate that Jesus is risen! Click here to see some incredible pics taken by Chuck Maples on our facebook page. This was one of my favorite pics Chuck captured.
We then welcomed 2,461 in worship over five services as we celebrated the Resurrection! I want to say a special thank you to those of who worshiped in our Bible Theatre venue to give up your Sanctuary seats for our guests and visitors. I was never more proud than when I announced the opportunity to do so and saw dozens of you immediately get up and move downstairs - what a witness to our guests! Here is the attendance of each service from Easter.
Saturday
5:30pm – 744
Sunday
8:00am – 457
9:30am – 613
11:15am – 427
5:00pm – 211
I am so honored to serve God here at Resurrection West and I cant wait for these next three weeks to begin. Please make a commitment right now to be in worship with me and my family the next three Sundays as we dream God-sized dreams for the future of our church.
Looking forward to growing in worship with you,
Pastor Jason
Resurrection West Campus
24000 West Valley parkway Olathe, Kansas 66061
913-538-7800
For an after hours urgent pastoral care need call 913-314-6058
rezwest.org
Follow on twitter @rezwest
Connect on facebook at facebook.com/ResurrectionWest
Pastor Jason Gant
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection West eNote from Pastor Jason Gant for Friday, 10 April 2015
Proverbs 24:3-4 says that by wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. This scripture has been speaking to my heart for almost two years. As our building committee gathered time and time again this scripture shed light as we dreamed, made plans, began to think and re-think, asked the hard questions, and moved forward in our phase 2 building design. I said to our committee in July of 2013 - that I believed they themselves were the wisdom God had provided to do the important work of designing our next phase building. I also interpreted through prayer and guidance from the Holy Spirit that the established understanding is who we are at Resurrection. At our very core we understand that our mission is to build Christian community where non-religious and nominally religious people are becoming deeply committed Christians. The rooms being filled with rare and beautiful treasures are our people. We have names and God claims us as His children. We are every age and generation, some almost 100 years and others just days old.
This Sunday we begin a 3-week journey in a series called Branching Out: Making room for all. Along this journey, we will consider our legacy, determine our sacrifice, and make the commitment to continue God’s call to change lives, transform our community, and renew the Church. Click here to view and share the promo video for the series from our facebook page
I look forward to preaching these three Sundays and I can’t wait to grow with you. This Sunday we begin by showing the phase 2 building plans in detail, along with testimony and story as we consider the legacy of Resurrection West. There will be visual displays around the Sanctuary as well as a print packet and prayer card as you leave each service. I will be sharing with you where we are in our financial goal after the first 40 households have now made their commitments. They have set the example and pace for us all. This campaign is about equal sacrifice, not equal amounts. When we come together in this first act of worship, God will use it to build His kingdom beyond our imagination. The Lord will make room for all!
There are many events, activities, and invitations as a part of this campaign, all leading up to commitment Sunday, April 26th.The first invitation is to pray, followed closely by personal devotion time with God in scripture and meditation. Below is the prayer I have been inviting us all to pray as we move forward in these next three weeks.
Lord God, with humility, we look to You to provide the wisdom, understanding, and knowledge needed to accomplish your vision. We ask for a fresh empowering of your Holy Spirit to give us discernment, creativity, and clarity moving forward. Help us to identify and apply the resources you provide through the generous giving of your people. Help us to work efficiently and be faithful to the mission of your Church, Resurrection West. We look to the future with hope and are filled with joy as we branch out, making room for all. May this kingdom work strengthen our faith and increase our love for you and for one another. AMEN
You can also join the over 400 households who have been reading the daily devotional booklets we began handing out Easter weekend (children – don’t forget to bring in your “great commission art project” as described at the beginning of the booklet this Sunday). Click here to go to the branching out web-site to read digital uploads of the first five devotions from the booklet. You will also see great blogs from our staff team there. We will have plenty more booklets in worship on Sunday.
Next I invite you to make your presence in worship the highest priority the next three Sundays. Coming together in prayer, praise, and honor of God will be critical to the success of this campaign. The Spirit of God moves in His people when we come together every Sunday!
We’ve got some great mission and ministry coming up. Check these great opportunities to grow.
Church-wide MEGA DAY and family event at Olathe Community Center - April 25th
Rezlife cookout this Sunday!
Rezlife middle school mission trip - register now!
Rezlife high school mission trip - register now!
Mathew's Ministry Family night out April 10th
Pre-Baptism Class April 14th
Vacation Bible Camp 2015!
MEGA Day of Service, Learning and Fun – Saturday, April 25 – Begin the day by making a MEGA difference in our community. Meet at Resurrection West at 9 am for instructions, doughnut holes, coffee and prayer. We’ll be doing light house repair and yard work for the elderly, disabled and in-need in Olathe. Wear your favorite MEGA MISSION t-shirt (extras available for free that day). Bring work gloves, rakes, yard tools and family and friends for an awesome morning of caring for our neighbors. No need to sign up – just show up and serve. For more information, contact Chris.Holliday@cor.org.
Church-wide Branching Out Event – After MEGA MISSION, join us from noon – 2 pm at the Olathe Community Center. Enjoy lunch, crafts and activities, Resurrection Celebrity Jeopardy (featuring some of your favorite Vacation Bible Camp skit personalities), and a special presentation by Pastor Jason on how our next building phase is important to everyone – especially our children. At 2 pm, you are welcome to purchase a $6 per person swim pass and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at the Olathe Community Center Aquatic Park. For more information, contact Chris.Monson@cor.org.
Rezlife West Mission Trip Cookout THIS SUNDAY! Join us in supporting the High School Mission trip to Nashville. We will be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and desserts after the 10:45 am and 5 pm worship services. Do you attend the 9 am service and can’t make the cookout? We have breakfast pastries for you! Your prayers and support are much appreciated; all free-will donations will help offset the cost of our mission trip and other rezlife Student Ministry activities. More information on the mission trip and registration can be found at rezwest.org/nashvilletrip. Check out the rezlife summer flyer in the bulletin this Sunday to see all of the fun events happening this summer for our students at Resurrection West!
Rezlife West Middle School Summer Mission Trip to downtown KC – All Middle School students (incoming 6th-8th graders) are invited to join us July 20-24, as we work with Resurrection Downtown to serve the community in downtown Kansas City. Cost is $200 which includes transportation, meals and lodging. This is a great opportunity to serve God while having a lot of fun! Register atrezwest.org/students.
rezlife West High School Nashville Mission Trip – All high school students (incoming 9th graders – outgoing seniors) are invited to join us in Nashville, June 7-13, to serve various ministries in the area. Fun will be had by all! Cost is $275, which includes transportation, housing and all meals except for two traveling lunches. Register at rezwest.org/nashvilletrip. Also seeking adult volunteers to assist with – and enjoy – the trip. Contact Rick.Webb@cor.org to volunteer.
Matthew’s Ministry Family Night Out TONIGHT! – Friday, April 10. Parents of children with special needs can have an evening out while volunteers and staff care for the child with special needs and his or her siblings. This will be an evening of fun with crafts, games and friendship-building! A light meal is served, and parents may drop off their children at 5:30 pm or later, and return to sign them out by8 pm. Register your special needs child and their sibling(s) at rezwest.org/children. If you would like to serve as a volunteer for this event, contact Vicki.Holdman@cor.org.
Pre-Baptism Information Class – Holy Baptism is a covenant between an individual and God. If you are considering baptism, please attend this class Tuesday, April 14, 6:15 - 7:00pm, in our Sanctuary. Learn more at rezwest.org/baptism.
Vacation Bible Camp 2015 is coming! Join in the fun of “Disciple Me” at Resurrection West VBC June 22-25, and for Family Fun Night on Friday, June 26. Hundreds of kids join us every summer for a fun-filled VBC experience, and we need lots of volunteers to help it all come together! Your gifts and talents are needed for planning, teaching, organizing or leading. Adults who sign up to volunteer for the VBC week may register their children early at a discounted rate. Visit rezwest.org/vbc for more information and to sign up to serve.
Finally, this past weekend was a true “Kingdom Party”. So many of you served to help make Easter weekend a thin space (where heaven meets earth)! Everything began with our Egg Hunt, where we welcomed hundreds and hundreds of people to celebrate that Jesus is risen! Click here to see some incredible pics taken by Chuck Maples on our facebook page. This was one of my favorite pics Chuck captured.
Saturday
5:30pm – 744
Sunday
8:00am – 457
9:30am – 613
11:15am – 427
5:00pm – 211
I am so honored to serve God here at Resurrection West and I cant wait for these next three weeks to begin. Please make a commitment right now to be in worship with me and my family the next three Sundays as we dream God-sized dreams for the future of our church.
Looking forward to growing in worship with you,
Pastor Jason
Resurrection West Campus
24000 West Valley parkway Olathe, Kansas 66061
913-538-7800
For an after hours urgent pastoral care need call 913-314-6058
rezwest.org
Follow on twitter @rezwest
Connect on facebook at facebook.com/ResurrectionWest
Pastor Jason Gant
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection West
24000 W Valley Pkwy
Olathe, Kansas United StatesThe United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Downtown Weekly eNote from Pastor Scott Chrostek - Friday, 10 April 2015
Greetings RezDowntowners,
I hope this message finds you doing well this Friday morning! I know that I am still riding high from a great Easter weekend. As a way of starting today’s eNote, I simply wanted to say “thank you” to everyone who came out and celebrated Easter with us at the Kauffman. It was so great to see so many people in attendance at one location. Between our two worship services we had well over 1900 people in attendance (many of whom were visiting for the very first time). This was our biggest Easter yet, and it was awesome! God’s Spirit was definitely moving throughout that space and I am excited to see where it will lead us into the future.
In addition to thanking everyone in attendance, I wanted to specifically thank all of our volunteers and the members of the RezDT staff for making Easter worship possible. We had almost 100 volunteers who gave of their time and effort simply to welcome everyone in attendance with God’s resurrection light and life. It is a privilege to have such a committed community led by so many faithful volunteers! Thank you.
After our Easter Celebration at the Kauffman Center, we are now ready to kick off a brand new sermon series revolving around the question, “Why?” For the next four weeks we’ll be focusing on tough questions of the faith, beginning with God and Suffering. We’ll be asking, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” My hope is that you would invite friends and join us this weekend as together we draw nearer to the heart of God.
Lastly, Here’s a link to our Easter Video from the Kauffman #liturgyofthecity. Feel free to check it out and share it online with you friends on social media.
In the meantime, here are ways to connect to the life of the church;
Women’s Breakfast Series – This Saturday, April 11th at 9am.
Make-It on Monday! – Monday, April 13, 6:30 pm
Making Sense of the Bible study starts Tuesday, April 14 at 7pm.
April FaithWork: Saturday, April 18th at 9am.
Join others Acting Up in Church! Wednesday, April 22 at 7pm.
The Internet and Sexuality - Saturday, April 25, 9-11am
Women’s Breakfast Series – “Managing the Message – from the Inside Out” Saturday, April 11, 9 am at 1522 McGee. Learn about effective communication from C.K. Reisinger, speaker and published author (and from Rez Downtown). Bring a breakfast item to share – or come anyway even if you don’t have time to bake or shop. Visit rezdowntown.org/womensbreakfast or contact Jan Burchett at jburchett@kc.rr.com.
Make-It on Monday! – April 13, 6:30 pm at 1522 McGee. Our thoughts will turn to spring as we tackle some projects for plants and the garden: decorative flower pots, seed balls and plant hangers. Bring scissors and an old t-shirt you don’t mind cutting up, and we’ll have the rest! Any questions? Contact Amanda at amandatspake@gmail.com or Charlotte atcharlotte_mm@yahoo.com.
Making Sense of the Bible study. Be a part of this 7-week study starting Tuesday, April 14 at 7pm. We will be studying Adam Hamilton’s book which addresses often misunderstood biblical themes leading readers to a deeper appreciation of the Bible so that we might hear God speak through it and find its words to be life-changing and life-giving. The book may be purchased online or at the first class for $17 (scholarships available). To register, go torezdowntown.org/makingsense. For questions, contact Bob Edwards at kansasbob@gmail.com.
April FaithWork – It is spring and time to get outside and serve KC! Our next FaithWork isSaturday, April 18, at 9 am. All you have to do is show up at the church (1522 McGee) wearing clothes that can get dirty and we will send you out to serve in the community until lunch time. Many of us will work outside in a community garden in downtown KC, at the KC Rescue Mission or a local elementary school. As always, we will have on-site FaithWork for people who like to knit and an activity for kids where they will put together something fun and deliver it to those in need. It will be a huge day and you will want to be a part of it! Contact Pastor Todd at todd.maberry@cor.org with any questions. BBQ Club – Pastor Todd is eager to discover which BBQ place is the best in Kansas City. Each month he plans to try a new one on the third Saturday of the month. For April, we’ll try a KC staple: Wyandot BBQ (7215 W 75 St., Overland Park, KS). If you love BBQ, plan to meet Pastor Todd on Saturday, April 18, around noon (after Faithwork). Bring a friend, especially if your friend loves delicious BBQed meats!
Join others Acting Up in Church! What better place than church to perfect your improv skills?! On Wednesday, April 22 at 7pm, come to this 4-week class which is for ANYONE, especially if you are terrified to get on stage or simply act out! Fun & easy games help you to explore the art of improvisational acting. You will have a great time and laugh a lot! Register at www.rezdowntown.org/actingup. For questions, contact Kaevan at kaevant@gmail.com.
The Internet and Sexuality: Why it is a Problem and How to be Part of the Solution. OnSaturday, April 25, 9-11am at 1522 McGee, join other concerned community members in a conversation about how easy access to the Internet has created a pornography addiction epidemic. Our church wants to be the kind of church that is brave enough to talk about it. We have asked Church of the Resurrection’s Sherry Danner, a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, to help us learn more. We hope all concerned community members will join this conversation so that we can be a part of the solution God wants for Kansas City. This event is appropriate for those 18 and over only. For more information or to register for childcare, visit rezdowntown.org/solution.
I am so blessed to be a part of this community and I am so proud to serve Christ with you in this city. I am excited to start this new sermon series with you that wrestles with the tough questions. I hope you'll invite friends and join us this weekend as we continue building Christian community in the center of this city, until then, I hope you have a God-filled Friday and I'll look forward to seeing you soon!
Grace and Peace,
Scott
I hope this message finds you doing well this Friday morning! I know that I am still riding high from a great Easter weekend. As a way of starting today’s eNote, I simply wanted to say “thank you” to everyone who came out and celebrated Easter with us at the Kauffman. It was so great to see so many people in attendance at one location. Between our two worship services we had well over 1900 people in attendance (many of whom were visiting for the very first time). This was our biggest Easter yet, and it was awesome! God’s Spirit was definitely moving throughout that space and I am excited to see where it will lead us into the future.
In addition to thanking everyone in attendance, I wanted to specifically thank all of our volunteers and the members of the RezDT staff for making Easter worship possible. We had almost 100 volunteers who gave of their time and effort simply to welcome everyone in attendance with God’s resurrection light and life. It is a privilege to have such a committed community led by so many faithful volunteers! Thank you.
After our Easter Celebration at the Kauffman Center, we are now ready to kick off a brand new sermon series revolving around the question, “Why?” For the next four weeks we’ll be focusing on tough questions of the faith, beginning with God and Suffering. We’ll be asking, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” My hope is that you would invite friends and join us this weekend as together we draw nearer to the heart of God.
Lastly, Here’s a link to our Easter Video from the Kauffman #liturgyofthecity. Feel free to check it out and share it online with you friends on social media.
In the meantime, here are ways to connect to the life of the church;
Women’s Breakfast Series – This Saturday, April 11th at 9am.
Make-It on Monday! – Monday, April 13, 6:30 pm
Making Sense of the Bible study starts Tuesday, April 14 at 7pm.
April FaithWork: Saturday, April 18th at 9am.
Join others Acting Up in Church! Wednesday, April 22 at 7pm.
The Internet and Sexuality - Saturday, April 25, 9-11am
Women’s Breakfast Series – “Managing the Message – from the Inside Out” Saturday, April 11, 9 am at 1522 McGee. Learn about effective communication from C.K. Reisinger, speaker and published author (and from Rez Downtown). Bring a breakfast item to share – or come anyway even if you don’t have time to bake or shop. Visit rezdowntown.org/womensbreakfast or contact Jan Burchett at jburchett@kc.rr.com.
Make-It on Monday! – April 13, 6:30 pm at 1522 McGee. Our thoughts will turn to spring as we tackle some projects for plants and the garden: decorative flower pots, seed balls and plant hangers. Bring scissors and an old t-shirt you don’t mind cutting up, and we’ll have the rest! Any questions? Contact Amanda at amandatspake@gmail.com or Charlotte atcharlotte_mm@yahoo.com.
Making Sense of the Bible study. Be a part of this 7-week study starting Tuesday, April 14 at 7pm. We will be studying Adam Hamilton’s book which addresses often misunderstood biblical themes leading readers to a deeper appreciation of the Bible so that we might hear God speak through it and find its words to be life-changing and life-giving. The book may be purchased online or at the first class for $17 (scholarships available). To register, go torezdowntown.org/makingsense. For questions, contact Bob Edwards at kansasbob@gmail.com.
April FaithWork – It is spring and time to get outside and serve KC! Our next FaithWork isSaturday, April 18, at 9 am. All you have to do is show up at the church (1522 McGee) wearing clothes that can get dirty and we will send you out to serve in the community until lunch time. Many of us will work outside in a community garden in downtown KC, at the KC Rescue Mission or a local elementary school. As always, we will have on-site FaithWork for people who like to knit and an activity for kids where they will put together something fun and deliver it to those in need. It will be a huge day and you will want to be a part of it! Contact Pastor Todd at todd.maberry@cor.org with any questions. BBQ Club – Pastor Todd is eager to discover which BBQ place is the best in Kansas City. Each month he plans to try a new one on the third Saturday of the month. For April, we’ll try a KC staple: Wyandot BBQ (7215 W 75 St., Overland Park, KS). If you love BBQ, plan to meet Pastor Todd on Saturday, April 18, around noon (after Faithwork). Bring a friend, especially if your friend loves delicious BBQed meats!
Join others Acting Up in Church! What better place than church to perfect your improv skills?! On Wednesday, April 22 at 7pm, come to this 4-week class which is for ANYONE, especially if you are terrified to get on stage or simply act out! Fun & easy games help you to explore the art of improvisational acting. You will have a great time and laugh a lot! Register at www.rezdowntown.org/actingup. For questions, contact Kaevan at kaevant@gmail.com.
The Internet and Sexuality: Why it is a Problem and How to be Part of the Solution. OnSaturday, April 25, 9-11am at 1522 McGee, join other concerned community members in a conversation about how easy access to the Internet has created a pornography addiction epidemic. Our church wants to be the kind of church that is brave enough to talk about it. We have asked Church of the Resurrection’s Sherry Danner, a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, to help us learn more. We hope all concerned community members will join this conversation so that we can be a part of the solution God wants for Kansas City. This event is appropriate for those 18 and over only. For more information or to register for childcare, visit rezdowntown.org/solution.
I am so blessed to be a part of this community and I am so proud to serve Christ with you in this city. I am excited to start this new sermon series with you that wrestles with the tough questions. I hope you'll invite friends and join us this weekend as we continue building Christian community in the center of this city, until then, I hope you have a God-filled Friday and I'll look forward to seeing you soon!
Grace and Peace,
Scott
@scottchrostek
Congregational Care and Support
If you need pastoral care, call 816-979-1330 or for after hours emergencies, 816-875-0267.
To submit a prayer request, contact Todd.Maberry@rezdowntown.org
Connect and follow us:
www.twitter.com/RezDowntown
For more information:
Visit our website www.resurrectiondowntown.org
1522 McGee Street
For more information:
Visit our website www.resurrectiondowntown.org
Kansas City, Missouri 64108 United States
(816) 979-1330
Rev. Scott M. Chrostek, Campus Pastor
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Downtown
Rev. Scott M. Chrostek, Campus Pastor
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Downtown
The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection Downtown
13720 Roe Avenue
Leawood, Kansas 66224 United States
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