Richland Center Free Methodist Church

Select Capable Men From Among You

In a world where political savvy and charm often sway votes, we invite you to consider a higher standard for leadership—one rooted in trustworthiness, reverence, and integrity.
The narrative of Moses and Jethro from Exodus reveals the blueprint for delegating authority to those who lead not by self-interest, but by a fear of God and a rejection of corruption. As our church approaches its own elections, reflect on these biblical lessons to select leaders who embody these enduring virtues.
We urge our community to apply these scriptural guidelines to uplift our church and society. Embrace the call for leaders who are not just popular, but truly principled. Let’s ensure our choices resonate with wisdom that has stood the test of time.
 
Recorded February 11th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Exodus 18:13-27

Call to Commitment

In Sinai’s shadow, we now stand,With hearts wide open, hand in hand.The mountain’s call, so clear and bright,Invites us to bask in holy light.
God’s presence thunders, strong and clear,A sacred bond, it draws us near.His covenant, our steadfast guide,In His promise, we shall abide.
“All that the Lord has said, we’ll do,”A chorus strong, a pledge anew.Together we affirm our quest,To live the words that God has blessed.
So come, let’s raise our voice in song,In unity, we are made strong.His flock, His people, in His care,In worship, love, and awe, we share.
Recorded February 4th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Exodus 19:1-8

The Most Important People in the Church

In the shadow of Mount Sinai, amidst the harsh wilderness, the people of Israel find themselves besieged by the Amalekites. As the Israelites clash with their foes in the valley of Rephidim, Moses ascends the hill, staff of God in hand, a silent sentinel overseeing the fray. With each raise of his arms, Israel’s warriors gain the upper hand, but as fatigue sets in and his arms falter, so too does the resolve of the Israelites. 
It is here, in this moment of desperation, that two unexpected heroes emerge: Aaron and Hur. Steadfast by Moses’ side, they uphold his weary arms, ensuring the staff remains aloft and victory within reach. The event casts a spotlight on the unity and support that bind the church together. It celebrates the collective strength and spirit that sustain the church, as each member’s faith and support contribute to the triumph of the whole.
Recorded January 28th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Exodus 17:8-16

Why Me Lord?

Life is full of challenges and difficulties. Sometimes, it seems like God is not listening or caring about our struggles. We may feel tempted to complain or question His ways, just like the Israelites did in the wilderness.
But God has a plan and a purpose for everything He allows in our lives. He knows what we need and what we desire. He is able to provide for us and satisfy us in ways we cannot imagine. He is also testing and teaching us to trust Him, obey Him, and enjoy Him.
The manna from heaven is a powerful illustration of God’s provision, power, and purpose. It shows us how God fed His people with bread from above, how He controlled the amount and the timing of the manna, and how He instructed them to gather, store, and eat it. It also reveals how the people responded to God’s gift, both positively and negatively.
The manna has a lot to teach us today as well. It can help us to appreciate God’s grace, to acknowledge His sovereignty, and to align with His will. It can also challenge us to avoid grumbling, greed, and disobedience. It can inspire us to seek God’s presence, to share His blessings, and to celebrate His sabbath.Recorded January 21, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Exodus 16:1-5, 11-16, 19-32

Get Rid of the Leaven

In Exodus 12:1-20, the Passover story unfolds, revealing its crucial role in the Israelites' liberation. Central to this narrative is the removal of leaven, symbolizing the purging of sin and corruption. Fast-forward to the New Testament, and we find the Apostle Paul re-examining this symbolism against the backdrop of Christ's redemptive sacrifice. He calls us to examine our lives, purge the 'leaven' of sin, and align ourselves with the teachings of our Savior.
Recorded January 14th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Exodus 12:1-20

Epiphany

Epiphany commemorates the revelation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, represented by the visit of the Magi, or Wise Men, to the child Jesus in Bethlehem. This event, described in Matthew 2:1-11, symbolizes the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah not only by the Jews but also by the wider world. The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh brought by the Magi hold symbolic meanings: gold representing Jesus' kingship, frankincense his divine nature, and myrrh his mortality and future sacrifice.
Join Pastor Tim Ward as he shares the message 'Epiphany'. Discover the life-changing revelations that await when we seek the King of Kings with a faithful heart.Recorded January 7th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Matthew 2:1-11

A Simple New Year’s Resolution

'But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.' Paul's own account encourages us to adopt a simple yet profound resolution for the New Year: to grow closer to Christ and to understand Him more deeply.Recorded December 31st, 2023Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Philippians 3:7-14

Wrapped in Love

Pastor Tim shares the story of Sarah, a single mother, as she shares the true meaning of Christmas with her children Becky and Charlie. Despite financial struggles, they remain focused on Jesus, leading to a heartwarming moment on Christmas morning. The story inspires us to prioritize values like gratitude, selfless service, obedience, grace, love, and praise in our lives.Recorded December 24th, 2023 (Christmas Eve Service)Message by Pastor Tim Ward

Ready or Not, Here I Come

As we gather to celebrate the miraculous birth of Christ this Christmas, let us also turn our hearts towards His promised return. 'Behold, I am coming soon.' These words from Revelation 22:7-20 unfold a vision of finality and fulfillment, where blessings await those who heed God's commandments, and where time's curtain draws to a close. Embrace the imminence of Christ's return with joy and solemnity, and consider how every moment, every decision we make edges us closer to that inevitable encounter.Recorded December 24th, 2023Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Revelation 22:7-20

City Sidewalks, Busy Sidewalks

In the heart of the world's hustle and bustle, where sidewalks teem with life and every face tells a story, find a moment to embrace the true joy of Christmas. As we navigate the lively streets, let's discover together the enduring joy that Christ's birth brings, turning our everyday pathways into a celebration of faith and jubilation.Recorded December 17th, 2023Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Isaiah 7:14