"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is; His good, pleasing and perfect will....." ~ Romans 12:2
 
Whether or not you watched the Oscars ceramony this past Sunday, you would probably would have to be hiding under a rock (no pun intended) if you hadn't heard what had happened between the actor Will Smith and the comedian Chris Rock.  
 
The incident was shocking on many levels. The violent act, the outbursts, and perhaps most troubling of all - was the lack of response by the academy and others attending the event. It isn't rocket science to conclude that if any stranger had entered the gathering and walked up on stage and struck a presenter that they would have been arrested on the spot. Nothing was done about the attack, and furthermore - Will Smith was allowed to stay in his seat, and went on to win "Best Actor" for his part in the movie "King Richard". Most alarming, was when it was announced that he won, he received a standing ovation.  
 
Many of us have grown tired of this story already.  
 
I am certainly not in the camp of, "I hope Will Smith gets what he deserves." He is a person, just like you and I, who is in need of God's real Grace. (Not flowery speech peppered with God-like talk) but Christ's authentic saving Grace.
 
I think what this incident points out to me, and hopefully to all of you - is the need to pray for God's wisdom when we face trouble.  
 
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."  
 
It is SO IMPORTANT for us, as followers of Jesus - to be like Jesus when it is needed. To be like Christ in all situations - especially when we are facing trouble. Especially when we are feeling angry.  
 
This is when we put our faith into practice - when it is needed. Before we speak. Before we act. Before we are hateful. Before we are cold to someone. Before we "give someone what they deserve."  
 
These are the patterns of the world. We are called to be Christ to the world and not to conform to these patterns.  
 
How else can the world change?  
 
Is Jesus really calling us to "stand our ground, and burn with anger" towards someone? Or is Jesus calling us to forgive - like He did on the cross as people were mocking Him and insulting Him?
 
These thoughts are very challenging - but sometimes we need to allow God to challenge us. And to soften our hearts. And to change us - so that the violence, and hate might begin to change because Christ is working in us. People's lives might really be changed, as they lay their weapons down and exchange them for the hope, joy, and peace that could be theirs through our savior - Jesus Christ.
 
Amen.

~ Pastor Denise

We are thankful for your faithful support during these challenging times. Your generous giving has been vital in maintaining our ability to cover expenses and continue our church ministries. You may continue giving in-person at the indoor worship service, by sending your offering check directly to the church, or by using the church online giving feature found in the footer of the church website. It is easy, secure, and appreciated. The Online Giving option is also available while you are watching the weekly online worship service. --- Thank You

If so inspired, you may give online now, by clicking here.

• Chloe (Donna Ridge's great niece) - she is now 8 months old and is not tolerating the last round of chemo. She is in a lot of pain and very weak. She is supposed to have surgery on March 31 to remove a tumor from her kidney, but if she is not strong enough, they won’t be able to do the surgery. Prayers for improved strength and a successful surgery.
• MaryJane German's best friend and her husband, at the passing of their son, Eric. Please pray for the family during this difficult time for God's presence and peace.
• Dave Slover - for God's help and guidance as he's dealing with difficult people in his life.
• Betty Gibbons (former Pastor of DeBows) – recovering at home from a fall.
• Benjamin (nephew of Jill Palmer) – he broke his femur and will be in recovery for 6 to 8 weeks.
• Steven (son of a friend of Barbara Wesolovski) who is battling congestive heart failure.
• Anna and Irena, dear friends of Barbara Wesolovski who are both from the Ukraine. They have family in Ukraine, including elderly mothers in their 90's. Prayers for peace and for their protection.
• Prayers for Ukraine and for peace and for the war with Russia to cease.
• Sue Esposito (Joy’s friend) - is in hospice and not expected to live long.
• Continued prayer for home-bound church members: Rudy Iannacone; Ann Giarratano; Paul Bartek; Dottie Weeks

DeBows UMC is blessed with talented people who love to praise God. We pray for each other and give back to the Lord the blessings we’ve received. We welcome newcomers to join our music ministry and share and grow their talent for God’s glory. Please contact Grayce by email at music@debowsumc.org for any questions or to discuss opportunities to participate in our music ministry.

More information about the DeBows music ministry can be viewed here.

*Chime Rehearsal
--- Monday nights at 7 P‌M

*Band Practice
--- Tuesday nights at 7 P‌M

* Exceptions to these schedules can be seen in the church calendar. Rehearsal confirmations and/or cancellations are made by email. Please check email for any cancellations before coming out.