By Geoff Posegate
Special to the ShowMe Times

Can you feel the energy in the air around the Hope Epidemic on April 30?

The Hope Epidemic is an awesome opportunity for us to actually practice the grace of God in Jesus Christ through acts of service and kindness. Join with 1000 other volunteers who will be "Jesus-with-skin-on" for the people of our region.

God is using the HOPE EPIDEMIC to move us powerfully and joyfully into our mission field. As of today, we have over 500 people committed and/or registered for this amazing day. If you haven't signed up yet, CLICK HERE and get your FREE t-shirt (first 1000).

THIS WEEKEND: This weekend we'll continue our series titled, "THE CAUSE WITHIN YOU." What is God's "Macedonian Call" for you? What is the cause for which God has called you and equipped you? What is your contribution to leading people in new life with Jesus?

If you were in worship last weekend, and you have an idea about your Macedonian Call, bring back the slip of paper with your call written on it. If you're still thinking and praying about the cause within you, or if you misplaced the response sheet for "The Cause Within Me," another one will be supplied in worship this weekend, if you choose to use it. On Palm Sunday weekend, April 16-17, we'll assemble all the responses of those who choose to return them, and discover some of the Macedonian calls of our congregation.

MEAL A WEEK: One cause that God has placed before all of us is A MEAL A WEEK FOR MOZAMBIQUE. In the weeks leading up to Easter many people are giving up a meal a week, and putting the money they would have spent on that meal (say, $10 a week) aside to assist the people of Mucocane, Mozambique. The people in this poverty-stricken community want to build a well to provide fresh, safe water to the people of Mucocane. The cost of the well is around $10,000. On Easter weekend we'll offer our individual gifts for this project, and we'll announce results on May 1. This challenge will prevent illness and save human lives. Make the sacrifice and join in this effort!

PIANO'S FEATURED: This weekend, Traditions (9am) worshippers will be blessed with the best in piano music. Prior to the start of worship, the musicians of the "Hallelujah For Spring" piano concert have graciously agreed to play portions of their concert. Five beautiful baby grand pianos are now in our sanctuary for worship this Sunday, and for the Hallelujah For Spring at 7pm on Saturday, April 9, and at 1pm on Sunday, April 10. The ten pianists for this event include Mary Beaver, Terry Sapp, Judy Nickell, and Bonnie Stewart from First United Methodist Church.

After what seems like a long wait on 2011's calendar, Easter weekend is coming soon. Plan now to make your own journey with Jesus to the cross by participating in the following worship opportunities:

* April 21 - MAUNDY THURSDAY WORSHIP (7pm @ Sanctuary). This service recognizes Jesus' last meal with his closest followers, prior to his arrest, trail and execution - the original "last supper." You will have the complete experience, including the bread and cup... and foot-washing, for those who are willing!

* April 22 (noon @ First Baptist Church -1101 North Main, Sikeston). COMMUNITY GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE, Provided by the Sikeston Area Ministerial Alliance April 22 - FIRST UNITED METHODIST GOOD FRIDAY WORSHIP (7pm @ Sanctuary). Commemorating the death of Jesus. This is in many ways the hardest of all worship services, yet one of the most important! There is no resurrection without first facing the crucifixion.

* April 24 (7am @ First Assembly of God Outdoor Facility - Ingram Street north of the Salcedo Road Intersection) EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE, provided by the Sikeston Area Ministerial Alliance.

* April 23-24 - RESURRECTION CELEBRATION! SATURDAY - Chapel @ 5pm, Journey @ 6pm. SUNDAY - Traditions @ 9am, Journey @ 11am.

I know you'll agree that these are very exciting times @ Sikeston First UMC! I hope to see you in worship.

Geoff Posegate is the senior pastor at the First United Methodist Church in Sikeston. The church's website is http://www.thefunchurch.org
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