Hyde Park United Methodist

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho kick off our new series Hearts of Fire by exploring how spiritual practices help us stay balanced in seasons of change. From the disciples watching Jesus ascend, to becoming an empty-nester, to parenting in the thick of it—this conversation is all about what keeps us grounded when life feels uncertain. Magrey shares ancient wisdom from Ascension Day and a Pope named Leo, while Mat reflects on building routine and resilience. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your practice, this episode reminds us that spiritual practices aren't just a checklist—they're how we stay in orbit.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if we all embraced the power to be witnesses? On Ascension Sunday, we hear Jesus' promise to the disciples: they would receive the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses, near and far. This service invites us to reclaim that evangelical spirit, which has been central to the Wesleyan movement from the start. Reflection Questions:1. What significant life stage transitions were rewarding? What were challenging?2. What did you learn about stability and moving forward as you went through those transitions?3. How will you strengthen both contemplation and action in your spiritual life?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this final episode of our series on emotions, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho explore the complex emotion of nostalgia—how it helps us remember, reflect, and grow. They unpack the biblical tension between “remembering” and “listening,” and how both God and humans are called to do both. From seminary basketball games to parenting wisdom passed down unknowingly, this conversation invites us to honor the past without getting stuck in it. Whether you're someone who misses “the good old days” or someone learning to appreciate how far you've come, this episode is a gentle and grounded close to a series about becoming more emotionally whole.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The character Nostalgia does not get much screen time in the film Inside Out 2, but it is a significant and regular aspect of our personality and emotional makeup. The capacity to remember the past with fondness can be a gift. Indeed, the Bible is filled with numerous commands to remember what God has done, and to celebrate the faithfulness of our ancestors. At the same time, like all emotions, nostalgia can also be a detriment, if taken to an extreme. When we fail to live fully into the present or fail to have creative and hopeful imagination about the future, then we are unduly anchored in what was, rather than what can be.  Reflection Questions:1. What makes you feel nostalgic, and what past moments does it make you remember?2. How will you learn from both the good and bad memories of your past?3. What is your inner child telling you? What do you want to tell them?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

“Anxiety” is the newest character addition to the Inside Out films and is the one that most resonated with people who viewed it. Throughout the Bible, people exhibited worry, from the Israelites wandering in the wilderness to the disciples who followed Jesus. But even though worry is a natural human emotion, it does not need to define our experience. We can, in the words of Jesus in Matthew, exchange our burdens with that of Jesus, whose yoke is easier.Reflection Questions:1. When was the last time you felt anxious but didn't name it out loud? What changed—or could have changed—if you had?2. What's one practice (spiritual or practical) that helps you feel grounded when anxiety hits?3. Who in your life could use a safe listener right now? And how can you be present for them without trying to fix it?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Go behind the scenes of a powerful moment from our recent event with psychologist Dr. Erica Clarke. In her talk "Decoding Your Emotions," she unpacks how understanding our feelings can lead to healthier relationships, stronger self-awareness, and a more grounded life. She reminds us that no emotion is inherently bad — each one has a purpose, and we can learn to bring them into balance instead of letting them take over.

What do you do when something makes you angry—not just annoyed, but deep-in-your-body angry? In this week's episode, Justin and Mat unpack what it means to recognize and work through our anger without letting it consume us. Mat shares a real-life situation that stirred up frustration, anxiety, and powerlessness, and Justin walks through a spiritual inventory tool that helps name the source of anger, what it's touching in us, and what role we might unknowingly play in keeping it alive.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if anger isn't the issue, but how we channel it? Anger itself isn't sinful. The key is being angry at the right things and directing it toward positive action, just as Jesus and the Bible show us. Reflection Questions:When you think about a time you felt deeply angry, what was the source of that anger—was it rooted in love and justice, or ego and fear? How can you tell the difference?How has anger shaped—or distorted—your relationships, either through denial, repression, or explosion? What would it look like to let love, rather than anger, have the final word?Jesus responded to anger with purposeful, holy action. What might it look like for you to “acknowledge, analyze, invite, and act” in a current or recent situation where you've felt anger?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho open up about their personal experiences growing up with emotions like fear, sadness, and anxiety. From emotional suppression to learning how to feel and express emotions in a healthy way, this episode dives deep into why our feelings matter — and how they can actually help us connect, grow, and heal. Plus: a powerful story about proud tears on a soccer field, a Ted Lasso moment, and real-life tools for staying grounded when anxiety hits.FInd out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if grief is not something to escape but something to navigate? Grief is the shadow side of love—we only grieve what we have loved. Avoiding grief means avoiding attachment, which is not an option in the human experience. The question isn't how to minimize grief but how to move through it in a healthy way.Reflection Questions:1. When are you most prone to experiencing sadness? Fear?2. In what ways can sadness and fear be beneficial? Detrimental?3. How will you learn to name sadness and fear, and express them in a healthy way?  Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this joyful episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho celebrate Holy Humor Sunday, a tradition rooted in the idea that Easter is God's ultimate "gotcha" moment against evil. They kick off a new series on emotions by diving into joy — and sharing some hilarious faith-based memes along the way. From Spongebob and St. Paul to a Smokey Bear Bible story and a nod to the eternal "Is Die Hard a Christmas movie?" debate, this episode reminds us that laughter belongs in faith, too. Join us as we find the sacred in the silly and embrace joy together.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if joy isn't about circumstances but about strength? True joy is anchored in the unwavering truth that God is our strength, no matter what we face. Reflection Questions:1. What does it mean for you to have healthy emotions?  2. How can you experience joy amid hardship?3. What do you think it means to believe that “the joy of the Lord is your strength”?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In the most personal and poignant resurrection encounter in the gospels, Jesus appeared to Mary in the garden and revealed himself once he spoke aloud her name. The work of resurrection in us begins with recognizing our identity in Christ as a child of God, and then seeking to affirm the personhood of others who feel lost in their own grief and despair.  Reflection Questions:1. Why do you think Mary didn't recognize the resurrected Jesus?  2. In what ways do you live out of your false self?3. How can you allow God to help you rediscover and reveal your true self?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Journey into the drama of Holy Week through "Sarah's Story," a dramatic re-imagining of the last days of Jesus' life through the eyes of Sarah, a first-century woman who was close to the events of Good Friday and Holy Saturday.

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Justin LaRosa and Mat Hotho explore the Christus Victor atonement theory and its powerful message of liberation from sin, systems of evil, and spiritual forces. They discuss how this view of the cross offers a broader understanding of salvation and what it means to live out the hope of resurrection in everyday life. Join us as we unpack this compelling perspective and consider its impact on how we see Jesus' victory today.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The cross and resurrection give us victory over sin, evil, and oppression. This includes the suffering associated with addictions and other harmful hangups and behaviors. The Christus Victor atonement theory can help those on a recovery journey discover new power in Christ to overcome their hardships. Reflection Questions:1. Where do you feel powerless right now?2. Which of the ‘false palms'—things we trust in besides Christ—do you find yourself tempted to wave?3. How has community helped you experience freedom in Christ—or how do you hope it could?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho dive into the ransom theory of atonement, a dramatic and often misunderstood view of Jesus' death. They explore how it takes evil seriously—both as a cosmic force and a daily reality. The conversation also looks at Jesus' ministry in Luke 4 and how his message disrupts comfort and expands the circle of inclusion. Join us for a meaningful and eye-opening discussion about justice, grace, and what it really means to follow Jesus.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The ransom atonement theory is built on the notion that we are being held captive by forces that are beyond our control, and in the cross, God has released us from being held hostage. We are therefore called and empowered to be agents of liberation against the injustices people face in our society and in the world.Reflection Questions:1. In what ways has Jesus set you free from personal sins?2. How does the two-fold understanding of biblical justice change your view of justice?3. How is God calling you to be a part of setting people free from social injustice?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The moral example atonement theory points to the entirety of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as the source of our salvation. In his teachings and example, we receive the model for how to love God and each other. We are therefore called and equipped to be agents of love that will overcome hatred and revenge, thereby fully revealing God's intended image within each of us.  Reflection Questions:1. What difference does it make for you in understanding the cross not just as a way to heaven, but as a way of experiencing eternal life on earth?2. Whom do you have trouble loving?3. How will you take steps this week to love the people who are hard to love?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho discuss race, identity, and the personal work of anti-racism, exploring how the cross calls us to empathy, curiosity, and humility. Magrey shares reflections on his own experiences, the impact of current events, and lessons learned from his daughters. Join the conversation and discover how this journey is both deeply personal and universally important.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this powerful episode of Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho explore the deeply personal nature of faith, race, and reconciliation. Magrey reflects on his recent sermon, one of his most personal to date, sharing his own experiences with race and identity. They discuss how the cross calls us to both personal and collective transformation and how issues of race and justice are not just intellectual conversations but deeply human experiences.From the significance of imago Dei in diversity, equity, and inclusion to the role of empathy in a divided world, this conversation challenges us to reflect on the racism within our own hearts and take steps toward genuine anti-racism. Magrey also shares how his daughters have reshaped his understanding of identity and inclusion, reminding us that the work of justice is deeply personal, generational, and ongoing.If you're wondering how to take meaningful action, this episode encourages conversation, personal reflection, and a commitment to learning in community. Watch now and join us on this journey of faith, justice, and transformation.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In Christ, we have been reconciled with God. We are therefore called and equipped to be agents of reconciliation among groups who have been divided by discrimination and prejudice.Reflection Questions:1. When have you experienced significant struggle in matters of your own personhood and identity?2. How have you harbored racism in your own heart?3. How do you intend to be more anti-racist in your life, your relationships, and your actions in the world?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Pastor Sally Campbell-Evans and Rev. Bernie Lieving dive into the heart of forgiveness. Whether it's forgiving others, receiving grace, or learning to forgive ourselves, they explore why letting go can be so difficult—and so freeing. Join the conversation as they unpack powerful stories, scripture, and real-life experiences that reveal the transformative power of forgiveness.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The cleansing (expiation) atonement theory sees sin as a blemish or tarnish that we cannot cleanse on our own. Likewise, the stain of shame and guilt makes it hard for us to offer forgiveness, receive forgiveness from others, and most of all, forgive ourselves. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

How does nonviolence shape our faith? This week on Beyond the Sermon, Mat Hotho and Pastor Sally Campbell-Evans discuss how her experiences—from mission work to peaceful protests—shaped her understanding of Jesus and justice, and what it means to live out a nonviolent faith today.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if redemption didn't require sacrifice or violence? Through the cross, the cycle of bloodshed ends, and we are invited into a new way of living—one where peace, not violence, shapes our world. Reflection Questions:1. How do you typically respond when you witness violence in your daily life?2. Thinking of Jesus' command to love God and love neighbor, what is one non-violent thing you could do today to make this world a little more peaceful? 3. Could you imagine a time when you might be involved in non-violent direct action? What might that look like?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

When we read the Bible, we're encountering something ancient—written by people trying to make sense of their world and their experiences with God. So why do we sometimes expect it to be immediately clear to us today? This week, Mat and Decker explore how interpreting scripture is more like unpacking a halftime show performance—full of layers, context, and perspectives beyond our own.Join us as we discuss how history, language, and community shape our understanding of faith, and why wrestling with the text can deepen, rather than weaken, our relationship with God.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

How can reading the Bible transform your life and deepen your relationship with God? Scripture has the power to illuminate our hearts and guide us in loving God and others. But to experience its full impact, we must make it a regular part of our lives—and even better, read it in community. Discover how reading Scripture together can bring its truth to life in profound ways. Reflection questions:1. Which parts of the Bible tend to bring you fear or frustration, and how might a sense of curiosity transform your approach to those passages?2. When you hear the metaphor of the Bible as a ‘gem,' how does that shift the way you think about Scripture compared to seeing it as something rigid or unchanging?3. In what ways can you engage Scripture in community—through small groups or study partners—so it might ‘bear and become the Word of God' for you?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

How can we ensure the Bible is a source of liberation rather than harm? Throughout history, Scripture has been misused to justify misogyny, racism, homophobia, and other systemic sins. In this episode, we explore how to read the Bible faithfully, uncovering its message of good news and freedom for all. Reflection Questions:1. What childhood story has brought you deeper meaning as you have gotten older?2. What passages in the Bible have been most troublesome for you to interpret?3. How will you approach the Bible through the lens of love, for God and others?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Mat and Magrey discuss how reading deeply—whether it's scripture, poetry, music, or film—helps us see the bigger picture of God's plan in our lives. By engaging with different perspectives and holding multiple interpretations in tension, we grow in understanding, not just of the Bible, but of the world around us.Join us as we explore how faith isn't about rigid answers, but about an ongoing, dynamic conversation that shapes us into more thoughtful, compassionate people.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Matt and Magrey discuss the evolving ways God is depicted in the Bible. They reflect on how personal experiences and challenges reshape our faith, inviting us to expand our perspective rather than leave it behind. Whether through theology, life events, or moments of transformation, growth means embracing new ways of seeing God while holding on to what still resonates.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What do we do with troubling images of God in the Bible that seem inconsistent with his love and faithfulness? Stories of God's unpredictable actions can feel more like ancient mythology than the God we know. Explore how to read Scripture faithfully, uncovering its timeless truths beyond antiquated imagery. Reflection Questions1. What images for God in the Bible are among your favorites? What are most troubling to you?2. How has your relationship with God changed over time? What role did external circumstances play in those changes?3. What new way might you explore envisioning and relating to God in your life?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Violence in the Bible is one of the most challenging topics to wrestle with, yet it's a necessary conversation for understanding scripture in context. This week, Mat and Magrey explore the tension between taking violent passages too literally or dismissing them entirely. They discuss how ancient texts reflect the worldview of their time, the dangers of misinterpretation, and the responsibility we have to read scripture through the lens of love and justice. How do we navigate these difficult passages in a way that deepens faith rather than distorts it? Join the discussion.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

How can we reconcile a loving God with the violence depicted in the Bible? Many struggle with this challenge, especially when reading the Old Testament. Join us as we delve into how to navigate scripture faithfully while grappling with the tough questions about God, violence, and our understanding of his character. Reflection Questions:1. What biblical passages of violence are most troubling to you?2. How will you guard against the tendency to see the Old Testament as irrelevant or inferior?3. How will you live out the call of Jesus to non-violence?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Pastor Magrey deVega and Bishop Patrick Streiff explore the power of spiritual practices, from the Moravian texts that shaped John Wesley to the wisdom passed down through centuries of faith. They discuss how scripture, tradition, and relationships shape our journey, just as Jesus walked with His disciples toward transformation. Join the conversation on how faith is lived and shared in community.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

How does the way we interpret the Bible shape our faith? A Wesleyan approach focuses on inspiration rather than rigid concepts of inerrancy or infallibility. This perspective invites us to read Scripture dynamically and contextually, unlocking deeper truth and broader applicability. Join us to explore why this distinction matters so much. Reflection Questions:1. How will you see spiritual practices as a way of being, rather than an expectation of doing?2. What does it mean to you for the Bible to be inspired?3. How can different perspectives bring you new insights when reading of the Bible?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week Mat and Magrey explore the role of worship in the Psalms, reflecting on how faith and artistry can emerge even in life's bleakest moments. They discuss Psalm 100, a celebration of joy placed near lament, showing us the power of resilient worship in the face of unresolved struggles.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What does it mean to give back to God through worship? Worship is our response to God's incredible gift of grace. Having received the breath of God, we use it to proclaim His power and might. Discover how worship reflects a beautiful cycle of grace and praise. Reflection Questions:1. How has Sunday worship prepared you to be worshipful throughout the week?2. What do you need to do to be more worshipful every day?3. How will worship enable you to be an inspiration for others?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week Mat and Magrey explore how we are called to actively participate in addressing the world's challenges, rather than passively waiting for God to act. Reflecting on Psalm 37, they discuss how to focus on what we can control, release what we cannot, and find purpose in service. They also dive into the feeling of disenchantment that surrounds us and share insights on how to navigate it with faith and hope. The King Philosophy: https://thekingcenter.org/about-tkc/the-king-philosophy/Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What does it mean to serve with love as your foundation? God has uniquely designed each of us to serve in specific ways for his purpose. Join us as we explore how to embrace your calling and live it out with love at the center.Reflection Questions:1. When have you experienced disenchantment in your life, or in the world?2. What Fruit of the Spirit are easiest to demonstrate? What are hardest?3. What parts of Dr. King's sermon or Psalm 37 resonate most with you? Why?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week Savanna and Justin tackle the challenges of loving those who are difficult to love, especially when they are the ones causing us pain. They share insights on how to turn toxic experiences into opportunities to show others Christ's love and explore what it means to reflect grace in the hardest relationships.Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Our capacity to love others comes from God's lavish love for us and in us. God's love within us then compels us to love others lavishly and unconditionally. Both components are essential. Remembrance of baptism.  Justin preaching, Sally doing reaffirmation liturgy. Reflection Questions:1. How do stay near to Jesus Christ? What practices do you regularly engage in? What distances you from God, or currently blocks you from love?2. Reflect on your primary spiritual gift: How can you use your unique abilities to serve and love others, especially those in broken places, and grow closer to God in the process? (if you don't know) https://www.adultbiblestudies.com/spiritual-gifts-survey3. Consider a situation where forgiveness feels difficult or even impossible. What steps can you take to seek God's strength and grace to forgive, as Corrie Ten Boom did, and experience the transformative power of love?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week Mat and Magrey explore how God inspires us daily, even in the midst of life's challenges. Together, they discuss how aligning our lives with Christ's values opens us to divine inspiration, often found through hardship and conflict. Discover how the lessons we need most can shape us in unexpected ways, and learn to embrace the hard moments that ask, "What can this teach me?"Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

There is inspiration every day, with evidence of God's power and presence, if we will only be open to seeing it.Reflection Questions:1. How would you define inspiration, in terms of your own personal experience?2. When have you felt inspired by something that is not necessarily “religious” in nature?3. How might conflict and struggle be a source of inspiration for you?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Explore how letters connect us across time, offering encouragement, preserving memories, and deepening faith. Join Pastor Magrey deVega as we discover how the spirit of Christmas letters can inspire us to live with grace, love, and prayer all year long.Reflection Questions:1. What is the most cherished letter you have ever received?2. What are your most favorite Christmas letters you've received this year?3. What suggestions from today's sermon will you apply?Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Mat and Magrey recap The Christmas Letters-- touching on being both loving and truthful, Jesus' divinity, and what it means for our everyday lives. -- Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps --

In Jesus the full divinity of God “was pleased to dwell.” Therefore, through Christ, we can be at peace with God and we can live in peace with one another.Reflection Questions:1, How do you think Jesus experienced full divinity when he was on earth?2. How does thinking about the life of Jesus draw you closer to God?3. How will you live out Jesus' example more fully?-- Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps --

Join us this week as Mat and Rev. Bernie Lieving explore the difference between fleeting happiness and true, lasting joy. Hear Bernie's inspiring story of being called to a life of service and how it has transformed his journey.-- Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps -- 

Jesus emptied himself of his equality with God to become fully human. In doing so, he shows us a model for empathy, curiosity, and humility, which are keys to living a joyful life in Christ.Reflection Questions:1. How do you express your appreciation to those who have done or said something that has helped make your joy complete?2. Is there something you do on a regular basis that gifts joy to another person?3. What might God be calling you to do in 2025 that will be “living the same mind that was in Christ Jesus?” -- Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps --

This week, Mat and Magrey dive deeper into the letter of 1 John, exploring how our beliefs are shaped by the trust we place in God's promise of love.-- Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps --

Jesus is love incarnate, the “word of life” revealed to us as a human of both “water and blood.” He shows us the way of love, which shapes our relationships with God and others.Reflection Questions:1. What do you imagine the “magical circle” was like when you were born?2. When have you most vividly experienced God with your senses?3. How will you become more aware of God's love in ordinary moments?-- Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps --