Melvern/Quenemo UMC

08/23/2026

Join is as we continue our look at Jesus’ farewell discourse in the gospel of John

08/16/2026

08/02/2026

Join us as we begin a 5 week look at Jesus’ farewell discourse in the Gospel of John

07/30/2026

Like a cool drink of water when you’re worn out and weary
is a letter from a long-lost friend. (Proverbs 25:25)

Just today I was talking with a colleague about my need to reach out to my prayer partner. I said I really should send them a card. Wisdom seems to agree.

Who can you send a letter to this week? Ask God to place on your heart the one who could use this card the most. Then send it.

07/30/2026

When your enemies fall, don’t rejoice.
When they stumble, don’t let your heart be glad,
or the Lord will see it and be displeased,
and he will turn his anger from them. (Proverbs 24:17-18)

A few weeks ago we were driving in Kansas City when a rather reckless driver sped past us weaving in and out of traffic. 5 miles later we see this driver pulled over on the side of the road with flashing lights behind him. We found great joy in this.

Sometimes it is easy to reveal in the misfortune or consequences others face, especially when we see them as deserved, but Wisdom call us not to rejoice in the downfall of others. 1st Corinthians 13 tells us somethings similar--
"Love is patient, love is kind, it isn’t jealous, it doesn’t brag, it isn’t arrogant, 5 it isn’t rude, it doesn’t seek its own advantage, it isn’t irritable, it doesn’t keep a record of complaints..."

In love and wisdom, how do we respond when others, even those we despise, stumble and fall? Do we offer grace and mercy?

07/25/2026

Proverbs 23 spends a great deal of time discussing the risks of wine and encourage readers to stay away.

Growing up United Methodist, we only ever had grape juice at communion. So I was curious to read some Wesley sermons on the matter as I prepared this post, but I was side tracked when my google search pulled up a Budweiser beer ad from 1908.

I found it fun. So I thought I would share. It seems during that time, the American temperance, Budweiser used a number of “famous” persons to encourage beer drinking including: George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Thomas Jefferson, and William Shakespeare.

07/24/2026

Remove the mocker and conflict disappears;
judgment and shame also stop. (22:10)

Don’t befriend people controlled by anger;
don’t associate with hot-tempered people;
otherwise, you will learn their ways
and become trapped. (22:24-25)

There are people who seem to be perpetually angry. The little things set off big explosions, they are critical and unhappy. I find that time spent among such people often puts me in a bad mood. I find myself focusing on the negative, getting upset over small thing, and being harsh toward others.

Wisdom tells us that separating ourselves from those influences is the wise thing to do. Is there someone you need to spend less time with? Are you in need of changing your own perspective and attitude to make sure you are not influencing others toward negativity and anger?

07/22/2026

“A quietly given gift soothes an irritable person;
a heartfelt present cools a hot temper.” (Proverbs 21:14)

Who do you know who could use a little pick-me-up? Is there someone you can bless with a small gift to bring them a little joy today?

Sneak a candy bar on a co-workers desk. Buy the coffee of the person behind you. Tip 100% at dinner out. Bring cookies to the bank tellers. Do your spouses least favorite chore.

07/21/2026

Proverbs 20 feels as if it has something to say about everything. It talks of alcohol and actions, fighting and finances, eyes and ears and expensive jewels, loyalty and lies, and so much more. Much of it feels like common sense, but some feels beyond counter cultural--at least counter to our current culture.

"Kindness and faithfulness protect the king;
he supports his throne by kindness."

How often do we think of leaders needing to be strict and strong, never showing weakness, responding in force or others will take advantage? But those aren't the words of Wisdom. Wisdom says be kind and honest and loyal--to God, to others, to yourself.

How are you living kindly, honestly, and loyally? Are you faithfully following where God is calling? Are you being honest with yourself about your struggles and weaknesses? Are you treating each person you encounter with kindness?

I frequently tell my oldest that she needs to be a leader because others, especially those younger than her, are watching. Perhaps I need to remind myself that God calls me to be a leader as well. I need to remind myself that others are watching as I call myself a Christian. Am I leading (living) with kindness, honesty, and loyalty? Am I leading (living) as God has called or as the world dictates? How are you leading?