Rev. David Diller preached on “Seekers or Seekers,” from Mark 1:29-39.  The Gospels are written to show us who Jesus is, but Mark’s Gospel contains a counter-theme: concealment, a secret.   Although Mark & his readers know Jesus is “the Messiah, the Son of God,” people in the story don’t catch on to Jesus identity.  Even the disciples fail to understand Jesus is the Messiah.  At Caesarea Philippi Peter almost gets it, but Jesus says he misunderstands. This is because everyone either wants to use Jesus for their own ends (the crowds & the disciples) or they fear Jesus will destroy their power (the religious leaders).  Such seekers who come with power, strength, health, & wisdom want to use or control Jesus & God.  They don’t catch on to who Jesus is.   (See 1 Corinthians 1:26-31)

            The novel, “The Shack” tells us about the spiritual journey of the heart many find themselves on.  Some people are alienated from God because they were raised in dysfunctional families or with defective theologies.  Often the problem is a present tragedy or affliction they are going through today.   The Good News is those seekers who come to Jesus because their hearts are hurting will find God.    

Payne Springs UMC hosts a Walk to Emmaus reunion group every Tue at 5 pm.   Meetings are open & everyone is invited to bring a snack supper & join us.   United Methodist Men are hosting a Valentines Banquet for the women on February 14 at 6 pm & have their regular meeting February 18 at 6:30 pm.  The UMM will host a pancake breakfast for the community on Sat. Feb 28. 

All are welcome to join us for Disciple Bible Study in 2009.  Our next Disciple Bible Study groups meet on Tue, Feb 24 at 2 pm & Wed, Feb 25 at 10 am & Thur, Feb 26 at 3 pm, all on Lesson #27.  We are studying the letters of Paul.          
            Payne Springs UMC is a caring church family learning to follow Jesus. Our purpose is to help every person grow to full maturity in the image of Jesus Christ in the twenty-first century. With open hearts, open minds, and open doors, we combine both traditional & contemporary styles. We invite you to come learn about God and Jesus, the Bible and the Church each week. Sunday school is from 9-10am. At 10am coffee, juice, & snacks are served in Fellowship Hall. Worship is from 10:30-11:30am. Nursery care is provided. Sunday evenings we invite you to an in-depth study of Matthew at 5 pm. If you have questions or need directions, call our church office at (903) 451-2978 or go to www.paynespringsumc.  Or http://www.paynespringsumc.org.