A Moment for Mission
“The Son is the image of the invisible God, the one who is first over all creation. Because all things were created by him: both in the heavens and on the earth, the things that are visible and the things that are invisible. Whether they are thrones or powers, or rulers or authorities, all things were created through him and for him. He existed before all things, and all things are held together in him. He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the one who is firstborn from among the dead that he might occupy the first place in everything. Because all the fullness of God was pleased to live in him, and he reconciled all things to himself through him—whether things on earth or in the heavens. He brought peace through the blood of his cross.” Colossians 1:15-20, CEB
These verses from Colossians give us a beautiful picture of who Jesus is. He’s not only our Savior—He’s the one who made the world, and He’s the one who holds it all together. From the skies above to the soil under our feet, everything was made through Him, and everything is loved and sustained by Him.
That includes the land, the people who care for it, and the communities that grow from it.
Today we recognize Rural Life Sunday, a moment to honor and support those who live, work, and worship in rural places. These aren’t just quiet towns or pretty landscapes—they’re the heart of farming, food production, and faithful living. Rural communities help feed the world and care for creation in ways that often go unnoticed.
But life in rural areas can be hard. Populations are shrinking. Jobs can be scarce. Access to healthcare, education, and even church resources can be limited. Still, God is there—present in the fields, in the small churches, and in every act of care for the land and one another.
That’s where the Church comes in. Through your support and giving, especially on days like today, we’re able to come alongside rural congregations and ministries that are making a real impact. Your gifts help with outreach programs, support small churches, care for rural pastors and families, and promote sustainable ways to live with the land—not just from it.
When we support rural life, we’re not just preserving a way of living—we’re joining in God’s work of holding all things together. And we’re reminded that creation is not just something to use, but something to treasure. Christ’s peace reaches into every corner of the earth—rural and urban, seen and unseen—drawing it all together in love.
Reflection Question:
Where do you see God at work in the land around you—and how might you be part of caring for that good work, for both people and the planet?
Children’s Message
Title: God Made the Whole World—and Cares for All of It
Materials: Fruit, vegetables, soil, or a photo of a farm
Good morning, friends!
Have you ever picked a vegetable from a garden or seen a big field with plants growing? Isn’t it amazing to see how food grows? (Let the children respond)
The Bible tells us something really special. It says that Jesus made everything—the sky, the land, the animals, and even us! And it says He helps keep it all working together with His love.
Today at church, we’re celebrating something called Rural Life Sunday. That’s a special time when we say “thank you” to God for farms, for the people who grow our food, and for the land that helps us stay healthy and strong.
Even if we don’t live on a farm, we’re still part of it. The fruits and vegetables we eat, the flowers we see, and the animals we love—all come from the world God made. And God wants us to help take care of it!
What is something you love about nature or the world God made? How do think we can help take care of God’s earth? (Give time for answers)
This week, let’s remember: Jesus is part of everything—and we can help by loving the world He made and the people who take care of it.
Let’s pray:
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for making the world and everything in it. Thank you for farmers, gardens, animals, and sunshine. Help us take care of your world and love the people who care for the land. Amen.
Offertory Prayer
Christ, through whom all things were created and are held together,
We bring these gifts in gratitude for the earth beneath our feet,
the hands that work the land, and the communities that nurture life.
May this offering support ministries that care for rural and urban communities alike,
and may it reflect our shared commitment to justice, compassion, and connection.
Bless our giving, O God, and use it to sustain your creation and your people.
Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries
Holy and Reconciling God, in Christ, you have made the invisible visible, bringing us home with love beyond measure. As we offer these gifts, may they reflect our gratitude for your presence in our lives. Use them to build your kingdom, to restore what is broken, and to remind the world of your grace. May our giving be an act of thanksgiving, a sign of the ordinary magic of your love at work among us. In all things, may we live to your glory. Amen.
Newsletter Nugget
Colossians 1:15–20 reminds us that all things—every field, farm, and community—were created through Christ and are held together in Him. On Rural Life Sunday, we honor the rural heritage of The United Methodist Church and recognize the deep connection we share with the land and those who care for it. This special Sunday uplifts both rural and urban congregations through a dedicated offering that supports mission, outreach, and advocacy.
Join us in worship as we celebrate the Rural Life Sunday and offer thanks for those who work the land. Let’s ask ourselves how each of us can be more mindful of the ways God is at work in every corner of creation?