Blog | First United Methodist Church of Mesa

August 31, 2025 – “Together We Can Change the World”– Rev. Rock

On August 31, we gathered for “Together We Can Change the World,” lifting our voices in hymns, prayer, and scripture from Philippians 3. Guest preacher Rock Robinson encouraged us to “look backward in order to live forward,” reminding us to let go of the past and boldly follow God’s call. With children, families, and friends united in worship, we were sent forth with confidence to be change-makers, bound together in Christ’s love.

August 24, 2025 – “Together We Are Stronger”– Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

In this week’s message, Together We Are Stronger, Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes reflected on Ephesians 4:1–16, reminding us that true strength is found in unity, vulnerability, and love. We are called to stop relying on “Someone Else” and instead share our gifts to build up the body of Christ. When we walk hand in hand, we discover that together, through Christ, we are strong enough to face change, speak the truth, and live with hope.

August 17, 2025 – “Together We Experience Love”– Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

In Together We Find Peace, Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes reminded us from Ephesians 2:11–22 that Christ’s peace breaks down every barrier—erasing the lines between “insiders” and “outsiders.” God calls us to replace fear with compassion, to live as peacemakers who build bridges, bear one another’s burdens, and welcome all into the household of God.

August 10, 2025 – “Together We Find Peace”– Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

August 3, 2025 – “Together We Have a Home” – Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes

In Together We Have a Home, Rev. Dr. Sam Parkes shared from Ephesians 1:3–14 that in Christ we are chosen, adopted, and forever welcomed into God’s family. Our true home is built not on exclusion, but on grace and love. Rooted in this belonging, we are called to share that same welcome so others may know they, too, are home in Christ.

July 27, 2025 – “Faces of Our Faith: Lydia” – Dr. Sam Parkes

In Faces of Our Faith: Lydia, Dr. Sam Parkes shared how Lydia’s open heart and home in Acts 16 became a channel for the gospel’s spread. We were reminded to follow her example—listening for God’s leading, practicing hospitality, and honoring the “quiet saints” who serve faithfully without recognition. Through such openness and steadfastness, we become vessels of grace, extending God’s welcome to all.