Andy Talks

As we begin looking at the Lord's Prayer in this season of Lent, we turn to Matthew 6:9-13.  What does it mean to pray to Our Father, who art in Heaven?  What does it mean for us to say that His name is Holy?

In our Traditional message from February 15, Andy shares with us from Hebrews 10: 19-15.  He explains why he considers himself a moderate. A moderate is not someone who does not have real theological or political thoughts and opinions. They will not break relationships over those differences.  This has been the historic reality of the United Methodist Church, and may it remain so 

In our INTERSECTION message from February 8, 2026, Andy shares with us from Philippians 4:4-7. We have a God to whom we can take all things in prayer. As we seek Him in prayer, we find His love, grace, and mercy.

In finishing Luke's Gospel, we see that the Resurrection is not a ghostly myth but a physical reality that affirms the goodness of our own bodies and our physical presence in the world. We recognize that Jesus opens our minds to Scripture not for mere head knowledge, but for heart transformation, turning us into witnesses who carry His love to all nations—from our neighbors to our enemies. We understand that the Ascension is the ultimate victory, placing Jesus at the right hand of the Father where He lives to intercede and pray for us personally. Ultimately, we are called to live victoriously rather than defeated, knowing that because Christ has conquered sin and death, we are "clothed with power" to tell the story of His grace to the entire world.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2024%3A36-53&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

The walk to Emmaus provides a powerful template for how we encounter the resurrected Christ in the midst of our own ordinary, and often discouraged, journeys. As Cleopas and his companion walked away from Jerusalem, trapped in the "we had hoped" stage of grief, Jesus met them in the mundane rhythm of their commute, proving that He is never absent even when our eyes are too heavy with sorrow to recognize Him. Through the dual "shorthands" of Scripture—where He traces the messianic promise from Moses through the Prophets—and the "breaking of the bread," He reveals that the Cross was the centerpiece of God's plan rather than a tragic detour. This encounter teaches us that our "burning hearts" are a spiritual signal of His presence, urging us to look for Him not just in the sanctuary, but in every conversation, every meal, and every mile of our daily lives.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2024%3A%2013-35&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we sit with the early morning rain today, I'm leaning into that powerful question the angels asked the women at the tomb: "Why do you look for the living among the dead?" It's a challenge for all of us to stop searching for Jesus in the "dead" places of our lives—our past mistakes, our old shames, or the general ugliness of the world—and instead look for Him where life, grace, and beauty are actually breaking through. Even though the very first sermon of the Resurrection was dismissed by the apostles as an "idle tale," those women stayed faithful to what they had seen, reminding us that while we can't control whether people are ready to hear the Good News, we are still called to proclaim it. We should take heart knowing that even when our witness feels ignored, God is often at work in the "wondering" hearts of those around us, and our only job is to keep pointing toward the One who is fully alive and walking beside us today.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2024%3A%201-12&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on the death and burial of Jesus in Luke 23, we see a profound contrast between those who viewed the crucifixion as a mere "spectacle" and those who responded with genuine faithfulness and sacrifice. We recognize that while the crowds were drawn to the drama of the event, the Centurion recognized Jesus' innocence, and the faithful women remained present even when the world seemed to have won. We understand that Joseph of Arimathea's gift of a costly tomb serves as a model for how we can offer our best to the Lord, even in moments of perceived defeat. Ultimately, we are challenged to move beyond the search for spiritual "adrenaline rushes" and "cosplay" and instead embrace the quiet, consistent devotion of those who stayed by Jesus' side until the very end, trusting that the stillness of the Sabbath is not the conclusion of the story.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023%3A%2044-56&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In Luke 23, we see the profound theme of mercy unfolding through the final moments of Jesus' life. From the physical burden shared by Simon of Cyrene to the spiritual grace extended to those mocking and crucifying Him, Jesus consistently chooses forgiveness over retaliation. This mercy is most poignantly captured in His promise of paradise to the repentant thief, reminding us that no matter the "size" of our sins—whether they are public acts or private struggles with pride and envy—we all stand in equal need of God's grace. Ultimately, this passage challenges us to move beyond our own suffering to reflect that same transformative mercy to the world around us.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023%3A%2026-43&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our sermon from February 1, 2026, Andy shares with us from Colossians 3:16-17. We are supposed to marinate ourselves in God's Word, let it drench up every part of who we are.  And when we do that, it will change how we live our very lives. 

In examining the exchange between Pilate, Jesus, and the crowd in Luke 23, we see the dangerous consequence of choosing political convenience over moral truth. We recognize that by demanding the release of Barabbas—a violent Zealot—and the crucifixion of Jesus, the crowd chose the way of earthly power and insurrection over the way of the Kingdom of God. We understand that Pilate's failure to stand on his convictions, despite knowing Jesus was innocent, serves as a warning that "peace at any price" often leads to greater destruction in the long run. Ultimately, we are challenged to have the courage to stand for what is right and holy, trusting that even when the path is difficult, our true allegiance belongs to the King of Kings rather than the demands of the crowd.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023%3A13-25&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In examining the interrogations of Jesus by Pilate and Herod in Luke 23, we recognize the human tendency to view Christ through the lens of our own personal interests and convenience. We see that while Pilate sought political peace and Herod sought entertainment, neither was willing to confront the reality of Jesus' true identity or authority. We understand that our faith cannot be something "moderately important" or a means to get what we want from a "heavenly genie," but must instead be a total surrender to His Lordship. By looking past our own desires and distractions, we commit to following Jesus not for the "signs" He might perform or the comfort He might provide, but because He is the King of Kings whose will must become our own.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2023%3A1-12&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on the mockery and trial of Jesus in Luke 22, we see the profound power of His restraint and His unwavering commitment to the Father's mission. We recognize that while we often feel a natural impulse to defend ourselves and lash out when treated unfairly, Jesus chose the path of silence and submission, trusting that God's plan for redemption was greater than His current suffering. We understand that this "endgame" was not a result of weakness, but of a deliberate "not my will, but yours" posture that prioritized the salvation of the world over personal safety. Ultimately, we find encouragement for our own difficult paths—whether they involve health, finances, or relationships—by looking to the example of Christ, who trusted in the beauty of the final destination even when the road was paved with trials.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A63-71&version=NRSRVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane, we see the profound depth of His humanity and the intensity of His spiritual struggle. We recognize that Jesus' plea to "remove this cup" validates our own moments of weakness and fear, showing us that true faith involves being honest with God about our burdens. We understand that while the disciples struggled to stay awake due to the sheer exhaustion of grief, Jesus remained alert, choosing to align His will with the Father's even as His body bore the physical toll of His anguish. By following the example of the one who submitted to God's plan despite the cost, we find the courage to bring our own "heavy cups" to the Lord, trusting in His presence as we walk toward the challenges ahead.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A%2039-46&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on the transition from Jesus' command to carry swords to His healing of the servant's ear, we recognize the tension between fulfilling prophecy and practicing the ethics of the Kingdom. We understand that while the disciples were quick to use force to protect their interests, Jesus' firm "no more of this" sets a definitive boundary against violence and retaliation. We acknowledge that in our own lives, especially in the heated climate of social media, we are often tempted to "lop off ears" in a show of misplaced righteousness. By following the example of the one who healed His enemy even in the moment of His own arrest, we commit to the difficult path of peace, trusting that God's purposes are never achieved through the "power of darkness" but through the transformative power of humble service and healing.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A%2035-38%3B%2047-53&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our Traditional sermon from January 25, 2026, Andy shares from John 17:1-3. Jesus tells us here what eternal life is: know Him. We experience it every day, and when Jesus is in the center of life together, we have unity.

In reflecting on Peter's denial in Luke 22, we see that our failures, no matter how bitter, are never outside the reach of God's foreknowledge and grace. We recognize that Jesus' prayer for Peter was not that he would avoid the "sifting" of trial, but that his faith would endure and his future leadership would be defined by his return to the Lord. We understand that while our sin and betrayal cause genuine pain—as evidenced by Peter's bitter weeping—they do not alter God's fundamental commitment to us. Ultimately, we find hope in the truth that Christ has already "baked in" our mistakes to His plan for our lives, inviting us to turn back, receive His gaze of love, and find a purpose that extends far beyond our greatest stumbles.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A%2031-34%3B%2054-62&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on the disciples' dispute over greatness in Luke 22, we see a sharp contrast between worldly power and the logic of the Kingdom of God. We recognize that while the world defines greatness through authority and status, Jesus calls us to a life characterized by the phrase "not so with you," where the greatest is the one who serves. We understand that even in the aftermath of the most sacred moments, like the Lord's Supper, we are prone to the human desire for prestige and control. By following the example of Christ, who stood among us as one who serves, we commit to seeking a "superpower" found in humility and service, trusting that the path to true greatness involves laying down our earthly ambitions for the sake of others.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A24-30&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In exploring the institution of the Lord's Supper in Luke 22, we recognize that this meal is the most sacred act of our Christian worship. We understand the Wesleyan perspective of the Real Presence, acknowledging that while the bread and juice remain physically unchanged, Christ is truly and fully present with us through the power of the Holy Spirit. We see the sacrament as a vital Means of Grace that sustains us on our journey and works to sanctify our hearts, drawing us closer to the holiness of God. Ultimately, we approach the table not because we are worthy, but because we are invited into a mystery that transforms us, unites us with the global Church, and offers us a tangible experience of God's mercy.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A14-23&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on the preparations for the Passover meal, we recognize the beauty of "quiet faithfulness" in the life of the anonymous homeowner who provided the Upper Room. We understand that just as Jesus orchestrated the details for His disciples then, He provides opportunities for us to serve Him in our everyday lives now. We acknowledge the shift from a youthful desire for "greatness" to a mature pursuit of "faithfulness," realizing that even the smallest acts—like providing a room or a cup of cold water—can have an eternal impact far beyond our understanding. By staying alert to the small doors God opens today, we commit to being faithful stewards of the tasks set before us, trusting the Lord with the ultimate results.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A7-13&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our Traditional message from January 19, 2026, Andy shares with us from Matthew 5: 13-16.  We all want to leave a mark, we want to leave a legacy.  By being salt and light, we see what a true legacy looks like. 

As we begin the narrative of the Passion in Luke 22, we are confronted with the sobering reality of Judas's betrayal. We recognize that even those closest to Jesus, those trusted with the community's resources and called to His side, are susceptible to the influence of spiritual darkness when they prioritize their own agendas over God's will. We understand that while improving our society through education and resources is a vital Christian duty, these clinical solutions cannot reach the spiritual root of sin. We acknowledge our own agency and accountability, realizing that we must keep our hearts guarded and focused on Christ, who is the only ultimate answer to the brokenness within us and around us.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2022%3A1-6&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we conclude Jesus' public teaching in Luke 21, we recognize that the call to be "alert" is not just about watching the skies for the end of the age, but about keeping our hearts sensitive to God's presence in the present. We understand that the "worries of this life" can weigh us down and numb us just as much as any vice, causing us to miss the ways Jesus comes to us every day in the "least, last, and lost." We acknowledge that if the devil cannot make us "bad," he will often try to make us "busy," distracting us from our primary task of following Christ. By looking for Jesus in the intersections and crosswalks of our daily lives, we ensure that we are ready for His ultimate return while staying faithful to His work today.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2021%3A29-38&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In studying Jesus' apocalyptic teaching, we confront the reality that the permanent structures of our world—much like the stones of the ancient Temple—are temporary. We recognize the tension between knowing that no one can predict the day of Christ's return and our call to live with a constant, hopeful expectation of His "any-moment" arrival. We understand that the Second Coming is not a source of dread or a "horror movie" scenario, but the long-awaited moment of our ultimate redemption when all brokenness is healed. By choosing to stand tall and raise our heads even in the midst of global turmoil or personal suffering, we demonstrate a faith that relies on God's presence to sustain us until His Kingdom is fully realized.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2021%3A%205-28&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In reflecting on the widow's two copper coins, we recognize that while her individual generosity is an inspiring model of faith, the passage also serves as a sharp warning against religious systems that exploit the vulnerable. We understand that by reading this story in the context of Jesus' condemnation of those who "devour widows' houses," we are called to examine how our own lives and structures treat the poor. We acknowledge that our Wesleyan calling is to ensure that our faith is not merely a matter of "religious optics" or long prayers, but a commitment to protecting and elevating the "least among us." Ultimately, we seek to align our hearts with Jesus by moving beyond the abundance of our own comfort to care for those living in the scarcity of poverty.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2021%3A1-4&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we conclude Luke 20, we reflect on Jesus' warning against a faith built on "optics" and public approval. We recognize the temptation to use our religious "uniforms"—whether literal or metaphorical—to gain respect and status, while our hearts remain untransformed. We understand the profound danger that our virtues can pose when they lead to self-righteousness and pride, effectively blinding us to our own need for grace. By choosing to prioritize an inward-seeking devotion over outward-facing performances, we guard ourselves against the hypocrisy of the Scribes and ensure that our lives authentically reflect the humility and love of Christ.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020%3A41-47&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our INTERSECTION message from January 11, 2026 Andy shares with us from Matthew 3: 13-17.  In our baptism we remember who we are. We remember whose we are.

In our reflection on Jesus' encounter with the Sadducees, we recognize that our faith is rooted in the "God of the living." We understand that while the religious leaders of the time tried to trap Jesus with complex legalities, He pointed us toward a higher reality where our earthly categories of marriage and status are superseded by our identity as "children of the resurrection." We acknowledge that in the life to come, we will not become a different kind of being, but rather will be restored to the fullness of our humanity—healed of the sickness, addiction, and pain that plague this age. By holding onto this eternal hope, we find the strength to push back against despair in the present, knowing that our ultimate victory is secured in Christ.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020%3A27-40&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In exploring Jesus' response to the trap regarding Roman taxes, we recognize the call to navigate our dual roles as citizens of an earthly nation and the Kingdom of God. We see that while we are called to fulfill our civic obligations and work for the "peace and prosperity" of the communities where God has placed us, our ultimate devotion and identity are reserved for the One whose image we bear. We understand that being a disciple means making our neighborhoods better places because of our presence, balancing social engagement with a clear-eyed focus on our primary allegiance to Christ. Ultimately, we seek to be faithful stewards of our earthly lives while remaining fully surrendered to God's eternal authority.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020%3A%2020-26&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our study of the Parable of the Tenants, we confront the sobering reality that while we are precious to God, we are not indispensable to His ultimate plan. We recognize that the religious leaders of Jesus' day missed the blessing of obedience because they were more concerned with their own power and public opinion than with the truth standing right in front of them. We understand that God does not need us to accomplish His mission, but He deeply wants to include us in it. By shifting our perspective from viewing service as an obligation to seeing it as a joy-filled opportunity, we move from a checklist-driven faith to a life sourced in the "Cornerstone," ensuring we don't miss the profound blessing of being used by an amazing God of grace.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020%3A%209-19&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

On this Day of Epiphany, we contrast the diligent search of the Wise Men with the political deflections of the religious leaders in the Temple. We recognize that having access to the truth—as the priests did with the prophecy of Bethlehem or the elders did with Jesus standing before them—is not the same as actually seeking it. We understand that we often fall into the trap of looking for "politically expedient" answers that protect our comfort rather than engaging in the hard work of searching for the Way, the Truth, and the Life. We are challenged today to move beyond a passive knowledge of God and to pursue a deeper, more active relationship with Christ, ensuring that we do not miss the "visitation of God" while trying to remain comfortable.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2020%3A%201-8&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our Epiphany Sunday message, Andy shares with us from Matthew 2: 1-12. We see the story of the Wise Men and their call to faithfulness above all else.  May that be our goal for this new year!

As we return to our study of Luke, we witness Jesus weeping over Jerusalem's missed opportunity for peace and His subsequent cleansing of the Temple. We recognize that just as the ancient city faced destruction for failing to see God's presence, we too can become so blinded by our daily routines that we overlook the path of peace in our own lives. We understand that our role as a community is to remove the unnecessary "hurdles" and barriers that make worship difficult for others, choosing instead a radical hospitality that welcomes the stranger and the hurting. By focusing on de-escalation in our personal lives and lowering the barriers in our spiritual community, we ensure that our "house" remains a true place of prayer and encounter for all.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%2019%3A%2041-48&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our final sermon of the year for 2025, Andy looks at Psalm 148. We see the importance of praise to our lives; it is the metronome, it keeps the rhythm and beat to our lives.  Where was that rhythm of praise in 2025?  Where will you keep it in 2026?

On this Christmas morning, enjoy Andy's Christmas Eve message from Luke 2: 1-20, "Wonder."  Let's not be so busy trying to make Christmas happen that we miss the wonder all around us.  

In this final Advent reflection, we look to the prophetic hope of Isaiah 9, recognizing that the birth of Christ marks the beginning of the end for all that is "ugly" and broken in our world. We acknowledge that while we still experience the pain of sickness, war, and loss, we do not live as a defeated people because we know that these things do not have the final word. We understand that the Kingdom of God is a "now but not yet" reality—a work of restoration that has begun in a manger but is not yet complete. Therefore, we choose to intentionally bathe ourselves in beauty and wonder during these holy days, using the joy of the season to push back against darkness and remind ourselves of the ultimate victory and peace that Christ has secured for us.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%209%3A%202-7&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

On this "Christmas Adam," we reflect on the underappreciated role of Joseph, whose quiet righteousness and obedience provided the earthly foundation for Jesus' life. We recognize that while our modern culture often pressures us to chase fame and social influence, Joseph's example calls us to a higher standard of steady, humble faithfulness. We understand that Joseph's impact on Jesus—and consequently on the history of the world—came not from seeking the spotlight, but from simply doing the hard tasks God placed before him. By following Joseph's lead, we choose to prioritize our character and our devotion to God over the fleeting rewards of public recognition, trusting that true significance is found in being exactly where God needs us to be.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%201%3A%2018-25&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our Traditional message from December 21, 2025, Andy look Matthew 1: 18-25.  We see in Joseph's story that love is not merely an emotion that we feel, but love is simple, kind, sacrificial actions. Love is not what we feel; it is what we do.

As we enter the final days of Advent, we reflect on Paul's introduction to the Romans, which reminds us that Jesus is the long-promised fulfillment of the entire scriptural narrative. We recognize that Jesus was never a "last resort" for a failing humanity, but rather God's intentional "Plan A" from the very beginning of creation. By drawing parallels between the Old Testament journey of Israel and the life of Christ, we see that the Gospel is the completion of a story God has been telling for ages. We understand that just as the shepherds in Bethlehem transitioned from raising sacrificial lambs to witnessing the ultimate Lamb of God, we are invited to trust that God's plan for redemption is consistent, purposeful, and currently at work in our lives.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%201%3A%201-7&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6C

As we conclude this week's reflections on John the Baptist, we consider Jesus' powerful declaration that while John was the greatest of those born under the Old Covenant, even the least in the New Covenant holds a unique position of greatness. We recognize that this transition represents a move from an external law to an internal presence—the mystery of "Christ in us, the hope of glory." We understand that through the Holy Spirit, the real presence of Christ is not a distant hope but a current reality that dwells within each of us. Consequently, we are encouraged to view every aspect of our lives, from the mundane to the monumental, as sacred, knowing that Christ is really and fully present in every breath we take.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2011%3A%207-11&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we continue our journey toward Christmas, we reflect on the profound humanity of John the Baptist, who found himself questioning his life's work and Jesus' identity while facing execution in prison. We recognize that even the most devoted among us can experience a crisis of faith, yet we understand that these moments of doubt do not invalidate our status as Christians; rather, they highlight our human need for reassurance. We argue that the vital response to such moments is not to retreat, but to turn toward the truth of Scripture and the support of our faith community. By bathing our minds in the Word now, we ensure that we have a firm foundation to lean on whenever we find ourselves asking if we have "done it right."Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2011%3A%202-6&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In this devotional, we reflect on James 5:9-10 to explore how grumbling acts like a dye that our souls absorb, eventually changing our spiritual "color" and temperament. We acknowledge that while lighthearted complaining about the weather is common, true grumbling against one another erodes our sanctification and obscures the fact that every person is an image-bearer of God. By looking to the prophets and the saints as our examples, we learn that we can endure suffering and practice patience because our ultimate hope is not tied to this world, but to an eternal home. We conclude that by rejecting the cultural impulse toward constant negativity, we protect our souls and maintain a higher view of our neighbors.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205%3A%209-10&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we look at James, we are reminded that our central message is that Advent is a season defined by waiting, drawing a parallel between the centuries-long wait of the Israelites for the Messiah and our own modern aversion to delayed gratification, often illustrated through our shared impatience with technology like elevators and microwaves. We argue that this cultural instant gratification makes the scriptural call to "be patient" even more vital, and we conclude that waiting is a necessary act of Christian discipline and spiritual growth that forces us to relinquish control and trust in God's timing and ultimate resolution of our challenges.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%205%3A%207-8&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we hear Isaiah 35, we're reminded that God speaks hope into places that look completely broken. This promise of streams in the desert and a clear, holy way was given to people facing loss, exile, and devastation—and it tells us that dryness, sorrow, and despair do not last forever. Even when we feel worn down, lost, or unsure of the path ahead, God is still at work, making a way where there seems to be none. Advent invites us to trust that joy will return, restoration is coming, and God keeps His promises. So we keep walking, even when it's hard, believing that sorrow and sighing will not have the final word.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2035%3A%205-10&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

As we listen to John the Baptist's sermon in Matthew 3:5–12, we're reminded that repentance isn't just feeling guilty but actually turning our lives in a new direction. John doesn't soften his message—he warns that our background or religious habits don't matter if our lives aren't producing real fruit. The same is true for us: faith isn't measured by a résumé but by a heart being genuinely transformed. Repentance shows up not in perfection, but in the daily struggle to move toward Jesus, to get back up when we fall, and to let the Holy Spirit reshape us. So today, we're invited to bear real fruit—lived-out repentance—and trust the God who keeps forgiving, restoring, and leading us forward.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%203%3A%205-12&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In today's Advent reflection, we meet John the Baptist as Matthew introduces him—the last of the Old Testament prophets and the one called to “prepare the way of the Lord.” John's whole life reminds us what real purpose looks like: he wasn't the star, and he never tried to be. Like a fullback clearing the path for someone else to shine, John knew his calling was to point people to Jesus, not himself. In a culture obsessed with spotlight and recognition, he shows us that true joy comes from serving, from humility, and from helping others see Christ. We're not the hero of the story—Jesus is—and our job, like John's, is simply to make His path straight by loving, serving, and guiding others toward Him.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%203%3A%201-4&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In today's Advent reflection, Paul reminds us that God's heart has always been for all people and that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promise to bless every nation. Because Christ has welcomed us with open arms, we're called to welcome others with that same generosity — choosing unity over division, mercy over suspicion, and peace over agitation. Romans 15 shows us that God's family is far bigger and wider than we often imagine, and we're invited to live like that's true. As Paul closes with his beautiful blessing — that the God of hope would fill us with joy, peace, and an abundance of hope through the Holy Spirit — we're reminded that these Advent gifts don't come from perfect circumstances but from God's presence with us. Today, we're invited to embody that welcome, that unity, and that hope as we move through our day.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2015%3A%207-13&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In today's Advent reflection, we're reminded that this season isn't just about preparing for Christmas but also about returning to the rhythms of repentance, renewal, and peace. Romans 15:4–6 points us to the encouragement and hope found in Scripture and calls us to live in harmony with one another — something our culture rarely values. Paul's challenge to “put up with the failings of the weak” and “build up our neighbor” stands in stark contrast to an age marked by criticism and division. Yet this is the pattern Jesus gives us: a life not lived to please ourselves but to glorify God. True unity doesn't mean uniformity; it means choosing harmony over hostility, walking in the rhythm of Christlike patience, and letting our shared purpose in Jesus give us “one voice” that glorifies God. Today, we're invited to live as peacemakers in our homes, workplaces, and communities — people who embody the unity Christ prayed for and who reflect His grace in a divided world.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%2015%3A%204-6&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In our Traditional message from December 7, 2025, Andy shares with us from Matthew 3: 1-12. Repentance is a gift, because repentance reminds us just how much God loves us and longs to forgive us.

In today's Advent reflection, we read Isaiah 11:6–9 and are reminded that while the world around us is still deeply broken, God's ultimate plan is nothing less than the full restoration of creation itself. Isaiah paints a picture of a redeemed world where wolves lie down with lambs, danger is gone, and peace is the natural order again — the exact opposite of what we see now. From Genesis to Romans to Revelation, Scripture tells the same story: sin shattered not just humanity but all creation, and God is working toward a day when everything is made new. So as we move closer to Christmas, we live as people of hope — trusting that the future God promises is more real than the brokenness we see today. We don't stick our hands in snake holes, but we do live unafraid, looking for goodness, standing on God's promises, and remembering that one day, everything Isaiah describes will be fully, beautifully true.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2011%3A%206-9&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In today's Advent reflection, we look at Psalm 122 — a psalm of ascent that reminds us of God's faithfulness and the power of His promises. As we hear the call to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem,” we're led to remember the deeper covenant story running through Scripture: God made promises to Abraham, Moses, David, and the prophets, and every one of those promises finds its fulfillment in Jesus, the true Son of David and the Savior of the world. If God has kept His promises across thousands of years, then we can trust He'll keep the ones He's made to us right now — His presence, His forgiveness, His strength, His peace. So as we head into the weekend and sit with our Advent readings, we hold fast to the God who never breaks His word, standing on His promises and trusting that the same faithful God of Scripture is walking with us today.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20122&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/

In this passage, we're reminded that while we wait for Christ's return and for God to fulfill His promises, we're called to live with peace, holiness, and trust. Peter's comment that some of Paul's writings are “hard to understand” comforts us — even one of the apostles wrestled with Scripture — and it shows how seriously the early church already regarded Paul's letters. Peter's core message is that what feels like God's delay is actually His mercy: every day Christ hasn't returned is another day for salvation, growth, and grace to take root in our lives. As we wait, we're invited to ask ourselves whether we're truly at peace with God's timing, His answers, or even His silence. And if we find that peace difficult, our prayer can simply be, “Lord, we believe — help our unbelief.” We're encouraged to trust His patience, trust His plan, and allow His deep, sustaining peace to guide us as we continue growing together in grace.Shameless plug: here's a link to Method(ist) to the Madness, our new, hopefully entertaining podcast about church history. - https://methodisttothemadness.buzzsprout.com/Join us for our daily reflections with Andy. In 10 short minutes, he'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help you better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Peter%203%3A%2011-18&version=NRSVUEClick here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST. - https://groupme.com/join_group/107837407/vtYqtb6CYou can watch this in video form here - https://revandy.org/blog/