A Moment for Mission
“I’m already being poured out like a sacrifice to God, and the time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. At last the champion’s wreath that is awarded for righteousness is waiting for me. The Lord, who is the righteous judge, is going to give it to me on that day. He’s giving it not only to me but also to all those who have set their heart on waiting for his appearance. No one took my side at my first court hearing. Everyone deserted me. I hope that God doesn’t hold it against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that the entire message would be preached through me and so all the nations could hear it. I was also rescued from the lion’s mouth! The Lord will rescue me from every evil action and will save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and always. Amen.” — 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16–18, CEB
Paul’s words to Timothy are deeply personal and profoundly inspiring. He speaks of a life “poured out like a drink offering,” trusting that God will deliver him from every trial. He remembers those who stood with him, and he celebrates the faithfulness of God even in the face of opposition. Paul’s life reminds us that faith is active—it is lived in service, perseverance, and trust.
As United Methodist, we live out this same active faith through The Advance, our voluntary, designated official giving channel of The United Methodist Church. The Advance allows congregations and individuals to support global mission projects that address urgent needs—relief in natural disasters, education for children, health care in under-resourced areas, and empowerment for marginalized communities. These gifts flow through the agency Global Ministries, which administers the funds received. Because Global Ministries is supported by UMC apportionments, 100% of your gifts to Advance projects go directly to the intended project or ministry, maximizing the impact of your generosity.
Paul also reminds us that faith is sustained by connection. Just as Timothy had companions who supported him, the Advance depends on the connectional nature of the United Methodist Church. No single church can meet every need alone, but together, our shared gifts and prayers bring hope to countless people around the world. Connectional giving turns individual generosity into collective impact, echoing Paul’s vision of a faith poured out for the sake of others.
The world faces ongoing crises—natural disasters, conflict, poverty, and displacement. The Advance is a tangible way for United Methodists to respond faithfully and consistently, trusting that God will provide. Like Paul, we can step forward in faith, knowing that our efforts, small or large, are part of God’s enduring work. The life poured out is not wasted; it leaves a legacy of hope and transformation for generations to come.
Reflection Question:
How is God calling you to pour out your life, your time, or your resources to participate in a mission that brings hope to the world? What might it look like to trust God and your church community to amplify your faithful response to those in need?
Children’s Message
Title: Sharing God’s Love Around the World
Materials: A pitcher of water and cups
Good morning, friends!
Have you ever shared something you love—a toy, a snack, or even a hug—with someone else? (Let children respond.)
That’s kind of like what we read in the Bible today. Paul, a friend of Jesus, said his life was “poured out” helping others. He trusted God to take care of him, even when things were hard.
Just like this pitcher of water—if I pour it into cups and share it with you (pour water into several cups and let children see/participate)—I am sharing what I have. That’s what Paul means when he says his life was poured out to help others.
Today, our church does something similar through The Advance. Instead of water, people give gifts in the offering that help children and families all over the world—people who need food, water, school supplies, or extra care when something bad happens, like a storm. Because the church works together, everything we give goes straight to the people who need it most! We are like the pitcher of water, sharing our gifts so others can have what they need too.
You can share God’s love too—by being kind, helping a friend, or praying for someone who needs help. Every small act is like pouring out a little bit of love into the world.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for showing us how to love and help others. Thank you for people all over the world who need care and hope. Help us to share our gifts, our prayers, and our love, so everyone can feel your love. Amen.
Offertory Prayer
Gracious God,
You are our refuge and strength, a faithful presence in every time of need. We give thanks for the work of your church through the Advance Giving Network and Global Ministries, which brings hope and relief to people facing crisis around the world. Bless these gifts, that they may reach those in need, bringing healing, provision, and new life. Help us remember that through our connection as United Methodists, we are part of God’s larger work, serving together to show your love in tangible ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries
Humble and merciful God, you do not require perfection, only a heart that is open. Receive these gifts, not as a sign of our righteousness, but as a humble offering from those who know they need your grace. Teach us again that generosity begins not in pride, but in gratitude—not in proving our worth, but in trusting yours. May what we give today grow into mercy, justice, and joy in the lives of others and in our own. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Newsletter Nugget
“I’m already being poured out like a sacrifice to God, and the time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. At last the champion’s wreath that is awarded for righteousness is waiting for me. The Lord, who is the righteous judge, is going to give it to me on that day. He’s giving it not only to me but also to all those who have set their heart on waiting for his appearance.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8, CEB
In 2 Timothy, Paul reflects on a life poured out in service to God, trusting that the Lord stands by us in every trial. The Advance Giving Network allows United Methodists to do the same today—pouring resources into global mission projects that bring hope, relief, and transformation to people in crisis. Because Global Ministries, which administers the Advance, is funded by UMC apportionments, 100% of your gifts go directly to the intended project or ministry. Through connectional giving, your generosity reaches around the world.
Join us this Sunday for worship as we celebrate God’s mission and our part in sharing hope across the globe.