A Moment for Mission
“Look, the day is coming, burning like an oven. All the arrogant ones and all those doing evil will become straw. The coming day will burn them, says the Lord of heavenly forces, leaving them neither root nor branch. But the sun of righteousness will rise on those revering my name; healing will be in its wings that you will go forth and jump about like calves in the stall.” — Malachi 4:1-2a, CEB
Malachi 4:2a says, “But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays.” These words are a promise — a vision of healing, restoration, and hope for all.
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the faith, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It is a moment to listen, learn, and stand in solidarity with Native communities. For the United Methodist Church, this celebration is embodied in the Native American Comprehensive Plan — a commitment to honor, support, and strengthen Indigenous ministries through leadership development, scholarships, outreach, and reconciliation.
This plan is not only an expression of respect but a call to live God’s promise of healing. Connectional giving — where the whole church gives together — makes this vision possible. Gifts to Native Ministries sustain leaders, preserve heritage, and build stronger communities.
Malachi’s vision of the “sun of righteousness” reminds us that God’s light brings restoration. The Comprehensive Plan is a tangible way the church participates in that healing light. It calls us to uphold dignity, stand for justice, and walk alongside Native peoples in faith.
For those unfamiliar with the United Methodist Church, we are a global connection of congregations united in mission. The Native American Comprehensive Plan is a living expression of that connection — honoring God’s work among Indigenous peoples and sustaining ministries for future generations.
This week, as we reflect on Malachi’s promise, let us consider how we can join in God’s healing work — not only through prayer but through our giving. Gifts to Native Ministries empower communities, strengthen faith, and bring hope.
Reflection Question:
How can your giving and witness bring God’s healing light to Native communities through the work of the United Methodist Church?
Children’s Message
Title: God’s Light and a Special Plan
Materials: A basket or bag filled with cut out hearts
Good morning, friends!
November is a very special time — not only do we celebrate Thanksgiving, but it is also Native American Heritage Month. This is a time to remember and celebrate Native people, their stories, and the many gifts they share with the world.
As United Methodists, we honor many different ways that people worship Jesus. Did you know that some people worship God in ways that are different from ours? Can you think of ways Native Americans might worship Jesus that we don’t? (Let the children answer.) That’s right! Native Americans sometimes wear bright, colorful clothes and tall, feathered headdresses when they dance, sing, and worship God. These special clothes help them show their love and respect for God.
In our church, we celebrate Native Americans and the special gifts they share with us. They have stories, songs, and ways of living that help people, and we want to make sure those gifts continue. We call this the Native American Comprehensive Plan — it’s a special way our church listens, learns, and cares for Native people. This plan helps them have hope, healing, and a way to keep their traditions alive, like their dances, songs, and stories.
Each of us has a special story about our lives, and we can share those stories in lots of different ways. One way we care for others is by giving—our time, our money, and our hearts. When we give like this, we share God’s light with everyone. And just like that light, our giving helps keep the stories, songs, and traditions of Native people alive for the future.
How do you think you can share God’s love with others this week? Today, I have some hearts to give you. Take one and use it in a special way this week. Every time you see it, remember that God loves you. And also remember to think about how you can show God’s love to other people too.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your light, your love, and the gift of heritage. Help us celebrate and care for others so that your light and love can shine everywhere. Amen.
Offertory Prayer
God of hope and healing, You promise in Malachi, “But the sun of righteousness will rise on those revering my name; healing will be in its wings” (Malachi 4:2a). As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, we give thanks for the faith, resilience, and rich heritage of Indigenous peoples—stories of courage, wisdom, and love passed down through generations.
We lift up the work of the United Methodist Church’s Native American Comprehensive Plan. May it strengthen ministries, empower leaders, and bring reconciliation where there has been pain. Bless these gifts, O Lord, that through our giving we may shine your healing light across communities and generations, honoring the gifts of those who came before us and sowing hope for those who will follow.
Use our offerings, our hearts, and our hands to bring your justice, mercy, and love to every corner of the world. In Christ’s name, Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries
Restoring God, Maker of new heavens and a new earth, where sorrow is lifted, and joy takes root. As we bring our gifts this day, may they be seeds of your promised future—an offering of hope, justice, and mercy in a weary world. Use what we give and who we are to proclaim a kin-dom where none are forgotten, where the wolf and lamb lie down in peace, and where the sound of weeping is no more. Let this act of giving remind us that your dream is still unfolding—and that we are called to help build it. In Christ’s name, who is our joy. Amen.
Newsletter Nugget
“But the sun of righteousness will rise on those revering my name; healing will be in its wings...” Malachi 4:2a, CEB
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate Indigenous peoples, honor their heritage, and reflect on God’s work through them. In the United Methodist Church, we live this out through the Native American Comprehensive Plan — a vision to strengthen Native ministries, support leadership, and promote healing and reconciliation. Connectional giving makes this possible.
Join us this Sunday for worship as we celebrate God’s healing light, honor Native heritage, and commit to supporting the future of Indigenous ministries.