Travelers Rest United Methodist Podcast

What does love really look like? Is it patient and kind? Sacrificial and strong? On the night before his death, Jesus showed his disciples the full extent of his love—and called them to do the same.This Mother's Day, we pause to honor those who have shown us love in its many forms—mothers, mentors, and others who have helped shape our lives.In a world that often rushes past real connection, Jesus reminds us: “Love one another as I have loved you.” Join us this Sunday as we reflect on the power of Christ-like love—and the people who have taught us what love truly means.

On the road to Damascus, Saul was stopped in his tracks by a blinding light and a voice that changed everything. His encounter with the risen Christ turned a life of opposition into one of transformation and purpose.If you're searching for direction, hope, or a fresh start—this Sunday is for you. Come and hear how the light of Christ still breaks into our lives in powerful ways.

Even after the Resurrection, the disciples huddled behind closed doors—afraid, uncertain, doubting. Yet Jesus stepped into that locked room, offering peace, breathing the Spirit, and turning fear into faith.If you're wrestling with questions or carrying burdens, this Sunday is for you. Come and discover how the risen Christ still passes through every barrier to bring hope and new life.

Easter morning often begins with familiar traditions—colorful baskets, joyful egg hunts, matching dresses and bowties, family photos in front of the cross draped in white or beautiful flowers. These small rituals help us mark the day as special, a celebration unlike any other.But beyond the lilies and the lace, Easter speaks to something deeper. It speaks to broken hearts and grieving souls. To long Good Fridays and quiet Saturdays. To the hope we're not always sure we believe in.In John's Gospel, Mary comes to the tomb in tears, only to discover that what felt like the end was really a new beginning. Jesus meets her in her sorrow, calls her by name, and reminds her—and us—that resurrection is real. That God is still at work, bringing healing, wholeness, and new life.This Easter, we invite you to bring your baskets and bonnets, but also your doubts, your burdens, and your hopes. Come as you are. The tomb is empty. Love has won. And Christ still meets us—right where we are.

Join us this Good Friday as we reflect on the sacrifice Jesus made for us.  As we remember the pain and suffering allow us to have hope in the coming Sunday.

This Sunday, we continue our Lenten series, Doing What Disciples Do, with the message “Crowds,” based on Matthew 21:1–11.As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds shouted “Hosanna!” and laid down palm branches in celebration. But only days later, many in that same crowd would cry out, “Crucify him.”Crowds can be unpredictable—full of praise one moment, pressure the next. So where do we stand when the noise of the crowd grows loud? Do we follow faithfully, or do we fade into the background?As we prepare for worship, take time to consider:What draws you to Jesus in the first place? Whose voices shape your actions and choices? How can we remain faithful when the crowd moves in another direction?Join us this Palm Sunday as we reflect on what it means to follow Jesus—not just when it's easy, but even when the crowd turns.

This Sunday, we continue our Lenten series, Doing What Disciples Do, with the message "Love Like Jesus," based on Matthew 22:34-40.When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus' answer was simple yet profound: Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind—and love your neighbor as yourself. His love is not just a feeling but a way of life, one that calls us to compassion, grace, and action.As we prepare for worship, take a moment to reflect: What does it look like to truly love your neighbor in your daily life? How does your love for God shape the way you treat others? Are there places in your life where love needs to take the lead over judgment or division?

Jesus calls us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world—but what does that really mean for our daily lives? Are we bringing out the best in others, like salt enhances flavor? Is our light shining brightly, or are we hiding it away?This Sunday, we continue our sermon series, Doing What Disciples Do, with the message "Salt and Light," based on Matthew 5:13-16. As we journey through Lent, let's reflect on how we can live in a way that influences and uplifts those around us. Join us for worship as we seek to be faithful disciples, sharing Christ's love and truth with the world.

Life is a journey of faith, and as disciples of Christ, we are called to worship Him with our whole lives. This Sunday, we continue our sermon series, Doing What Disciples Do, with the message "Worship," based on Romans 12:1-2.As we walk through the sacred season of Lent, let's reflect on what it truly means to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. Join us for worship as we seek His presence and commit to a life of wholehearted devotion.

Life is a journey of faith, and as disciples of Christ, we are called to follow Him with our whole hearts. This Sunday, we begin a new sermon series, Doing What Disciples Do, with the message "Follow," based on Matthew 4:18-22.As we step into the sacred season of Lent, let's reflect on what it truly means to follow Jesus. Join us for worship as we seek His presence and commit to walking in His ways.

Join us for our Ash Wednesday Service as we begin the Lenten season with a time of worship, reflection, and the imposition of ashes. This sacred service invites us to pause, repent, and prepare our hearts for the journey toward Easter. 

Life is full of moments that shape us, transform us, and draw us closer to God. This Sunday, we'll explore "Awesome Change," based on Luke 9:28-36, and how encountering Christ can lead to a life-changing transformation.Join us for a powerful time of worship as we seek God's presence and open our hearts to the incredible change He can bring.

Drowning in Clutter?Life gets messy—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We accumulate stuff, responsibilities, and even worries that weigh us down. Over time, the clutter becomes overwhelming.This Sunday, we continue our Overwhelmed sermon series with "Overwhelmed by Trash and Clutter," based on Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus invites us to release the burdens we carry and find true rest in Him.Join us as we learn how to clear the clutter—both in our homes and in our hearts—and make space for the peace God offers.

Finding Rest in a World That Won't Slow DownLife moves fast. Between work, family, commitments, and endless to-do lists, it's easy to feel stretched thin and constantly on the go.How do we find rest when everything around us demands more?This Sunday, we continue our Overwhelmed sermon series with "Overwhelmed by Hurry," based on Mark 6:30-31. Jesus invites His disciples to step away and find rest—something we all need in a world that never seems to stop moving.Join us as we discover how to slow down, create space for what truly matters, and embrace the peace God offers.

Life moves fast. Between work, family, commitments, and endless to-do lists, it's easy to feel stretched thin and constantly on the go.How do we slow down and focus on what truly matters?This Sunday, we continue our Overwhelmed sermon series with "Overwhelmed by Busy," based on Luke 10:38-42. We'll explore the story of Mary and Martha and learn how to find balance, peace, and purpose in a world that never seems to stop moving.Join us as we seek to create space for what matters most!

In a world filled with constant noise and endless distractions, it's easy to feel like we're being pulled in every direction.How do we quiet the chaos and hear what truly matters?This Sunday, we continue our Overwhelmed sermon series with "Overwhelmed by Noise," based on 1 Samuel 3:1-10, 19. We'll look at Samuel's story and discover how we, too, can learn to recognize and respond to God's voice amid the clamor of life.Come and join us as we seek clarity, peace, and purpose in the midst of the noise.

Life can often feel overwhelming—whether it's the pressures of work, family responsibilities, financial concerns, or the uncertainty of the future. These burdens can weigh heavily on our hearts, leaving us feeling anxious and exhausted.Today, we'll begin our new sermon series, Overwhelmed, with the message "Overwhelmed by Worry," based on Matthew 6:25-34. We'll explore Jesus' teachings about worry and how we can find peace by trusting in God's care and provision. What are the things that overwhelm you, and how can Jesus' words help you find calm in the chaos?

Due to last week's winter weather, we missed our time of worship. This Sunday, we will gather to celebrate Baptism of the Lord Sunday with the sermon "Plain Ordinary Water," based on Mark 1:4-11. As we reflect on Jesus' baptism by John, let's take a moment to consider the meaning of our own baptism.

As the light of Christmas continues to guide us, we gather this Epiphany Sunday to reflect on the journey of the Three Kings and their search for the newborn King. In the sermon "The Three Kings," we'll explore Matthew 2:1-12, delving into the wonder and wisdom of these travelers and their response to God's guiding star.Join us in worship as we celebrate the revelation of Christ to all nations and the call to follow the light of His love. Together, let's begin the new year by seeking God's presence in our lives and sharing His hope with the world.

Merry Christmas! Tonight we celebrate the birth of Christ.  We will share in communion and light candles together.  His light shines in the darkness and the darkness will never put it out.

This service is held during the Advent season on the longest night of the year to support those grieving the loss of loved ones during the holiday season.

This Sunday, join us for a special Lessons and Carols service as we prepare our hearts for the joy of Christmas. Through scripture readings and beautiful music, we'll journey through the story of God's love revealed in the birth of Christ.

As our Advent journey continues, we turn our hearts toward the extraordinary ways God's presence breaks into the world. This Sunday, in the sermon "God with Mary, the Faithful," we'll reflect on Luke 1:26-38 and the courage and trust Mary displayed in answering God's call, showing us how faith can lead to incredible transformation.

As we continue our Advent journey, we reflect on the thin places—moments where heaven and earth seem to meet, and God's presence becomes profoundly real. This Sunday, in the sermon "A Thin Christmas," we'll delve into Micah 5:2-5 and discover how Christ's birth brings hope, peace, and closeness to a weary world.Come and worship as we embrace the sacred mystery of God breaking through into our lives, offering reassurance and joy in this holy season. Let's prepare our hearts together for the true gift of Christmas.

As Advent begins, we enter a season of sacred time—a time to awaken to God's presence, prepare for Christ's coming, and reflect on the hope of the season. This Sunday, in the sermon "Advent = Sacred Time," we'll explore Romans 13:11-14 and consider what it means to live with anticipation and readiness.This special Hanging of the Greens service invites us to decorate with symbols of the season, reminding us of the light and promise of Christ. Join us as we begin this journey together, embracing the sacredness of this holy time.

What does it mean to set the table for others? How can our lives prepare the way for grace, hope, and belonging? This Sunday, in the sermon "We Are the Table Setters," we'll reflect on these questions through the words of John 17:1-11. As we explore Jesus' prayer for his disciples, we'll consider how we're called to create spaces where God's love can be experienced by all. Join us as we discover the impact of living with purpose, serving with intention, and fostering unity in our communities.

This Sunday, we'll gather to explore how our perspective shapes our lives and relationships in the sermon, "Attitude is Everything." Reflecting on Luke 17:11-19, we'll consider the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, focusing on gratitude and the power of a thankful heart. As we dive into this message, we'll reflect on the blessings that often go unnoticed and how gratitude can transform our experiences and outlook. Join us as we give thanks, celebrate life's gifts, and discover how an attitude of gratitude brings deeper fulfillment and connection.

Today, we gather to reflect on what it means to live a life of trust and gratitude, exploring Jesus' teaching on finding peace and sufficiency in God's provision. In our sermon, “What Would Be Enough?,” drawn from Matthew 6:25-33, we'll look at the anxieties and concerns that often weigh us down and how faith can offer a path to peace. 

This Sunday, we gather for All Saints Sunday, a time to remember and honor those saints who have gone before us—those who have shown us what it means to walk faithfully with Christ. Our sermon, "Saints Are...", will explore the qualities that define saints among us and around us, those who inspire us with lives of grace, courage, and love. Together, let's celebrate these examples of faith and reflect on how we, too, are called to live as saints in the making, shining the light of God's love in our world. Join us as we honor this sacred legacy and seek to carry it forward.

This Sunday, we continue our series Answering the Why Questions with Why Does Discipleship Matter? Drawing from Luke 9:23-24 and Matthew 28:16-20, we'll explore what it means to follow Jesus, the cost of discipleship, and the call to make disciples of all nations. Join us as we discover why discipleship is essential to deepening our faith and living out the Great Commission.

Dogs have long been know for their loyalty and obedience, traits that have made them faithful companions to humans. Today we will draw inspiration from John 14:15-21 where Jesus speaks about love and obedience. We hope you find something meaningful that speaks directly to you today.

Good morning and welcome to worship. Today we will be looking at moments where time seemed to stand still, and we remember exactly what we were doing the day we heard. The sermon is based on Mark 8:27-33, where Jesus poses a life altering question….

Today we continue our ‘Bucket Fillers' sermon series with a message titled ‘No Big Regrets'. We will dive into Luke 16:19-31 to explore how living with purpose and intentionality can help us avoid the regrets that can weigh down our souls and distance us from God's will.

This Sunday we continue our sermon series ‘Bucket Fillers,' with a message entitled ‘Bearing One Another in Love'. We'll be diving into Ephesians 4:1-16 to uncover how mutual support and love within our community can reflect Christ's heart and bring us closer together.

We begin a new sermon series entitled ‘Bucket Fillers'. Today's sermon is entitled ‘Killing Them With Kindness'. We will be drawing from Ephesians 4:29-32, where we will explore how intentional kindness and uplifting words can be powerful tools in our spiritual growth and relationships.

Welcome to worship this morning as we dive into the parable from Matthew 13:24-30. We will explore the parable's rich imagery and its relevance to our spiritual lives. We will also reflect on how we can recognize and address the challenges that hinder our faith.

We begin a new sermon series today entitled ‘Seeds and Weeds'. Our sermon today is ‘Slinging Seeds and DIRT'. We will explore the different types of soil and the seeds' journey, reflecting on how this parable speaks to our own spiritual growth.

Today we'll be exploring Luke 19:1-10, reflecting on the encounter between Zachary's and Esau's, and the powerful lessons about redemption, transformation, and God's grace.  We hope that something speaks directly to you today as we worship together.

Welcome to our ONE SERVICE this Sunday with TRUMC. We continue our series with a message titled ‘How to Handle Giants'. We will delve in 1 Samuel 17:48-51 and reflect on David's confrontation with Goliath.

We are excited to welcome you to worship this morning as we continue our sermon series ‘Stories You May Know By Heart'. We will delve into Jonah's story this morning and reflect on the profound lessons about obedience, repentance, and God's boundless mercy.

Welcome to worship this Sunday. Today's service  and sermon are based on Luke 7:36-50. We will explore the depth of Jesus' compassion and the freedom that comes from experiencing His forgiveness.

Stopping for Burning Bushes Explores Exodus 3:1-15, delving into the profound encounter between Moses and God at the burning bush, a story rich with themes of calling, faith, and divine presence.

Welcome to worship today as we welcome our new Associate Pastor, Michelle Cockcroft. She will be continuing our sermon series with her sermon ‘Partners'. The sermon is based on Esther 3:13, 4:13-17.

Today we begin a new sermon series entitled ‘Stories You May Know by Heart'. We will begin with ‘A Father's Love' based on Luke 15:11-32. As we celebrate Father's Day we will reflect on this parable and the father's love for his returning son.

We gather together this morning for worship and continue our sermon series ‘We Are The Church'. Today's sermon is based on 2 Corinthians 4:5-9. We will dive into Paul's letter to the Corinthians about perseverance and the power of God's light shining through our lives.

Welcome to Travelers Rest UMC this morning. We continue our sermon series ‘We Are the Church'. Today's sermon is ‘Where We Came From…'. It is based on Acts 2:37-42. We will reflect on the early church's response to Peter's message.

Welcome to worship today. Today's sermon is based on 1 Corinthians 12:12-31. We will be reflecting on Paul's analogy of the church as a body with many parts.

We begin a new sermon series this Pentecost Sunday. The series ‘We are the Church' will begin with looking Acts 2:1-21 and Pastor Brian's sermon ‘Is your connection loose?'

Welcome to worship with TRUMC. We will be looking at Acts 1:1-11 on this Ascension Sunday. We also come together to celebrate all mothers in our lives.

This week we will continue our sermon series ‘The Easter Aftermath'. This week's sermon is based on John 21:4-19. We hope that you find something meaningful during worship that speaks directly to you.

Today we look at John 21:1-19 to uncover the lessons we can learn from Peter's experiences.  Reflect on what insights you might gain and how you, like Peter, can share them with others.