Sun Prairie United Methodist Church Podcast

Encouragement

Pastor Jenny Arneson reflects on the word of the week, "encouragement," drawing inspiration from Joshua 1:9 to remind us of God's presence and the transformative power of uplifting one another in faith and life.

How We Can Shape a Just World

The Psalmist's prayer for a just king in Psalm 72 challenges us to consider how we use our own power to promote justice in our daily lives. From our households to workplaces and communities, we are called to act thoughtfully and courageously, seeking fairness and equity in all our decisions and relationships.

Sermon - The Gift of Wisdom

On Epiphany Sunday, Pastor Claire Douglas reflects on the journey of the wise men, who sought the Christ child guided by a star, bringing gifts that symbolized their wisdom and devotion. Drawing from their story and the Wesleyan quadrilateral, she invites us to pursue wisdom by combining scripture, tradition, experience, and reason, as we strive to embody God’s love and truth in our lives.

Guiding Stars

For this week's Word of the Week, Guiding Stars, Pastor Jenny Arneson reflects on the Magi's journey of faith, encouraging us to embrace God's guidance and transformative love through the practice of prayerfully reflecting on a "star word" for the year.

The Power of Our Voice

This week's devotion on Ephesians 1:3-14 celebrates God's blessings in Christ—adoption, redemption, and inheritance—and calls us to use our voices in praise and advocacy, reflecting God's inclusive love.

Covenant

Pastor Jenny Arneson's devotion on "Covenant" highlights God's faithfulness and our commitment to love and obey Him. Inspired by John Wesley’s covenant prayer, she encourages using it to renew trust in God and dedicate ourselves to His service in the year ahead.

Staying Connected on the Journey

A devotion from the Upper Room publication "Disciplines" based on Luke 2:52.

And the Angel Said

Pastor Brad Mather's sermon, "And the Angel Said" from our worship service for the fourth Sunday of Advent, 2024

Emmanuel in the Shadows

This week’s devotion reflects on Psalm 80, a communal lament calling out to God for restoration and hope in the midst of despair. As we journey through Advent, we are reminded that even in our deepest pain, Emmanuel—God with us—holds us, comforts us, and shines light into our shadows.

Advent Joy

In her devotion on Joy, Pastor Jenny Arneson reflects on the lasting joy that comes from faith in God, which differs from fleeting happiness. She highlights the joy of the Advent season, witnessed vividly in the wonder of children at SPUMC's live Nativity, reminding us that God’s presence allows us to rejoice in all circumstances.

Repentance as a Gift

This week’s lectionary reading focuses on Luke 3:7-14, where John the Baptist calls his audience to bear fruits worthy of repentance. Through his direct and challenging words, John reminds us that repentance is not about feelings but about action—sharing with those in need, acting justly, and living lives that reflect God’s transformative grace.

Sermon - The Silent Strength of Joseph

"The Silent Strength of Joseph" explores the steadfast faith of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, despite his limited biblical presence. Through Joseph's silent yet faithful actions, and Mary’s courage in embracing God’s call, Pastor Jenny Arneson reflects on how God provides "enough" for life's journey, even amid uncertainty, fear, and change.

Dawn from Heaven

Pastor Jenny Arneson reflects on Luke 1:78-79, exploring the theme of God's compassion and the "dawn from heaven" as a guiding light through life's darkness.

Trust Renewed: An Advent Reflection

Advent is a season of waiting, reflection, and trust, inviting us into a personal journey of renewed faith. Like Zechariah in his months of silence, we are called to let go of our certainties, quiet our restless thoughts, and turn toward God's presence with hope and holy longing.

Sermon - I Must Be Dreaming

In "I Must Be Dreaming," Pastor Jenny Arneson reflects on Joseph's often-overlooked role in the nativity story, highlighting his courage, compassion, and unwavering faith in the face of uncertainty. Through Joseph's example and his trust in God's guidance—even via dreams—she invites us to embrace hope, grace, and courage as we navigate life's challenges and live out the meaning of Emmanuel: God with us.