Live Beyond Yourself


Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. - 1 Timothy 6:18 NIV

What does it mean to follow Jesus? This is the most important question of our time. It is important because we are looking for a new way to live. We're searching for a different "value" system and a new way to feel "valued" as people. We have grown tired and empty of trying to live according to the values of our culture. This culture we live in values all the wrong things and all the things that are wrong for us. The end result has been weakened hearts, homes and nation. Many of us have been living beyond our means not only financially, but emotionally as well.

It is time for us to live beyond ourselves with a new kind of power - to live a life that brings tremendous value to our families, friends and community. This kind of living brings new values and value to our life. This is why the question about following Jesus is so important - because Jesus Christ has made possible the kind of life that adds value to the lives of others and makes our life worth living. He invites us to follow Him into that kind of life.

The theme of this fall's congregation study is "Living Beyond Myself." As a congregation, we will be reading Bill Hybels' book, "Volunteer Revolution," and a devotional guide titled, "40 Days to a More Generous Life." These two books do a great job helping us understand what it means to follow Christ by joining ourselves to a praying, growing, serving and giving community. More importantly, as we come together in community, home groups and Sunday school classes, Christ blesses us with His presence. In fact He promised, "for where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." (Matthew 18:20.)

I want to encourage every Christian to grow deeper in their faith and discover what it means to live as God intended us to live - to experience the good news of a different way to live. I hope you will join Rachael and me in this four-week conversation.

To participate in this church-wide study, fill out the yellow insert in this Sunday's bulletin and place it in the offering plate. You can also indicate if you would like to host and/or lead a group in your home. For further information, contact Harvey Mann at Harvey.Mann@hmumc.org.

Joyfully yours,

Dr. David L. Davis