Dear Ocala First Church Family,
As we have read the news accounts detailing the increasing divisions over what to open, when to open, and how to open up our communities, we were reminded that our public witness as Christians is as important as ever. Rather than reflecting the anxiety or anger we see in the prevailing culture, we are called to reflect the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
In Ephesians 5:13-14, Paul tells us that, “You were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only don’t let this freedom be an opportunity to indulge your selfish impulses, but serve each other through love. All the Law has been fulfilled in a single statement:
Love your neighbor as yourself
."
When John and Charles Wesley were forming the first Methodist groups in the 18th century, they had three General Rules which still guide us today:
- Do No Harm
- Do All the Good You Can
- Stay in Love with God (worship, prayer, & scripture)
We pray that Ocala First UMC will offer this faithful witness to Ocala and beyond during this pandemic.
In this edition of Ocala First Connection, we share updates on our Re-Launch Plans, invite you to read scripture together this summer, and more!
We love you! We miss you! We are praying for you!
Blessings!
Pastors Anne and David Fuquay