Over the past year many of us have used technology in ways we never anticipated in order to connect with each other safely. At First UMC we now offer an online livestreamed weekly worship experience and a brand new First UMC app is available to download on computer tablets and smartphones. The main purpose of an “app” or “application” is to help make life easier for the user. This Lenten season we are exploring a different kind of app that’s always free to download and never needs a Wi-Fi connection. Jesus taught his disciples to pray using this “app” or “amazing, powerful prayer” found in the Gospel of Matthew and Luke. An app that doesn’t always make life easier, but always makes it better.

The 40 days of Lent are a time for spiritual reflection, rededication and renewal. This journey began with repentance and continues this week with recognizing our identity as God’s children. In this sermon, Pastor Harold reflects on Matthew 6, verses 9-12; verse 12 says “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”