Kindred in Christ,

John Wesley, 18th-century reformer and founder of the Methodist revival movement, wrote in his journal about what he called the three rises of Methodism, moments when the Spirit stirred him, his brother Charles, and those around them to live a faith that was bold, inclusive, and rooted in justice. They were seasons of awakening born from ordinary circumstances. Yet they changed the course of Wesley’s life and the shape of the church and the world. They remind us that renewal often begins not with something grand, but with a restless heart refusing to settle for life or religion as usual, a heart that longs for faith to be real, embodied, and seeking justice.

This Sunday, as we continue our Roots and Branches series, we will look back to those early stirrings and listen for what they might say to us today. Isaiah’s words confront hollow worship and call us to a faith that seeks justice and mercy (Isaiah 1:10-18). In Zacchaeus’ story (Luke 19:1-10), we glimpse what happens when grace climbs into our lives and transforms how we see, give, and belong. Like Wesley and like Zacchaeus, we are invited to rise from what is comfortable into what is courageous.

In this season of pledging and renewal, we are invited to rise from the ordinary in our own time. As you prayerfully consider your financial pledge and ways to serve in ministry, remember that each gift strengthens the roots of our community and helps our branches reach further in love, justice, and inclusion. Come and be part of the rising. Let us rise from the ordinary together, rooted in God’s love and called to courageous faith.

Alongside you,

Pastor Paul Ortiz