One thing that keeps us moving forward, trying new things, and being excited about life is the hopes and dreams we have for the future. Whether those be for ourselves, the ones we love, our community, or the world, the vision of a better future keeps us energized and focused. Especially when we are young we are encouraged to have high hopes and bold dreams. We are told that, "The sky is the limit!" "You can be anything you want to be!" "Just dream it, and it can happen!" Until it isn't, and you can't, and it doesn't. Were our hopes misguided? Our dreams unrealistic? Or were we just limited in our vision and ability? God calls us to a future that is greater, more, and bigger than our today. But how will we get there? Maybe it has to do with Whose dream we are dreaming and Whose power is fueling the journey. With God, dreams do come true. Worship Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQdo550ObGE

In early February every year, Americans turn their attention to the biggest football game of the season. This year the top teams will face-off on Sunday, February 13, 2022, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Fans will cheer from couches, living rooms, and gathering places across the country. Collectively we will consume 1.38 billion chicken wings, 12.5 million pizzas, and 11.2 million pounds of guacamole. Players and coaches will pour their hearts out and compete with passion to claim the Vince Lombardi Trophy and title of NFL Champions! But for many players, there is something even more important than the championship game. For many players their relationship with Jesus trumps even their football hopes and aspirations. Be inspired by NFL players who tell their stories of faith on February 13, 2022, at both The Garden Community Church and Union Chapel Indy. You are invited to the church at 10:00 a.m., or to the churches' social media outlets, for game day fun and to hear powerful stories of hope, grace, and life with Jesus - both on and off the gridiron. Worship Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1dt99ihuxI&t=1697s

In a world that values productivity, multi-tasking, and high achievement, it can be hard to tend to our spiritual needs. It feels so unproductive to spend time with God in worship, prayer, or times of quiet and reflection. But that is precisely what God invites us to do. Not only is it life-giving and restorative, it's where we find the greatest, most important work is accomplished - that of growing close to and walking with our Creator, God, and Friend. Worship link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dAK96vYl7E

Who's right and who's wrong; who's qualified and who isn't; who's in and who's out. As a species we seem bent on defining ourselves and others with the intent of drawing boundaries and building communities that share our values, our vision, our ideas, and our identities. This kind of thinking and activity has become so pervasive, that to experience anything different can seem suspect and subversive. But what if there was a place where, truly, you could show up and be welcomed and accepted just as you are? What if there was a place where you could rest your weary spirit, experience genuine hospitality, and let your guard down without having to agree with anyone, claim a certain ideology, or be anything in particular? Well... there is! Jesus invites you into his community that is Union Chapel Indy just as you are. Here, you are... welcome! Worship Link: https://www.facebook.com/UnionChapelIndy/videos/486910336125742/

The world is a scary place these days! The news gives us steady images of violence and unrest. The economy, the job market, the supply chain - it's all so very uncertain and precarious. And to even leave your home or be with others is a risk to your health as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. What is one to do? It would be easy to turn inward, to retreat, to hide away until the danger passes. But will the danger ever pass? Is there another way? Scripture encourages us often (some say 365 times) to "not fear." And that admonition is often accompanied by the promise that "God goes with you." Even during fearful and uncertain times, we can live boldly and with confidence... because we live with God. With God, You Are... Brave. Worship Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AxOe-zDC1Q

How much is enough? When is your income enough for your needs, your wants? When is your house big enough to be comfortable, to impress your friends? When do you have enough closet space? When are you enough for your significant other, your children, your employer? We spend tremendous energy, time, and resources trying to get enough and do enough to be comfortable, well thought of, safe and secure. But what if you are already enough? In a world that never seems satisfied with itself, us, or others, God is already immensely pleased with who you are - in fact, God is the one that made you this way! Before you seek to do enough to impress others, trust that you are enough, just the way you are. Worship Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JutWttB8B2o

It's nearly impossible to escape the messages and images that push us to be more and do more. If only we will buy the right car and dress like the influencers, then we will be popular and 'in.' If only we will be seen in the best places and hang out with the right people, then we will be happy. If only we will lose a few pounds, erase a few wrinkles, and keep our style up-to-date, then we will finally be loved. The world constantly calls us to be a certain way so that we will be loved. But Jesus says you are already loved, just as you are. And that in fact, there is nothing of this world (or in ourselves) that can separate us from that love. No need to go searching for love in this New Year... you are already loved! Worship link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlo74IH1j_Q

January is the time for New Year's Resolutions, (re)commitment to noble goals and higher ideals, and of course, new diets, stepped-up exercise routines, and healthier living. And in the Methodist tradition, we are also invited to renew our commitment to Jesus and a life of faith. This time of year the world calls us to self-improvement and renewed resolve. Jesus calls us to live like him and walk in his ways. Both require some introspection and discipline; both will ask something of us. But the good news of Jesus' call is that it comes with everything we need to see growth and forward progress: a loving God, the power of the Holy Spirit, the faithful presence of Jesus, and a loving community to support and encourage. Step into the New Year with confidence, you walk with the One who both calls - and equips - you. Worship link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IicGCbmXHPY

When the song of the angels is stilled, When the star in the sky is gone, When the kings and princes are home, When the shepherds are back with their flock... The work of Christmas begins: To find the lost, To heal the broken, To feed the hungry, To release the prisoner, To rebuild the nations, To bring peace among others, To make music in the heart. ~Howard Thurman Worship Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRRfEao_LwM

Come to the manger! At this place, on this night, the hopes and fears of all the years meet. A child is born to us. All those on earth and heaven, rejoice, be glad this holy night. Worship Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iwgQMtUFH4U