November 1, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for November 1
Sunday, November 1 Morning: Pss. 103; 150 Evening: Pss. 117; 139 Zeph. 1:1–6 1 Cor. 12:27–13:13 Matt. 18:21–35 A prayer based on 1 Corinthians 12: 27- 13:13 Loving God, you draw us together as the body of Christ. Today, as we remember those saints who have gone before us, let us remember the ways they witnessed to the love and grace you generously poured out on them. We remember their witness of love, and we remember their examples of faith, hope, and love as they held on to Jesus, their Lord. Who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
October 31, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 31
Saturday, October 31 Morning: Pss. 63; 149 Evening: Pss. 117; 139 Nah. 3:8–19 Rev. 13:11–18 Luke 12:32–48 A prayer based on Revelation 13: 11-18 Holy and loving God, you give us life. But we know that there are those who claim to give life, yet their ways ultimately lead to separation, disillusionment, and even death. Strengthen us, so that when we are called to not only follow false gods, but to say they are greater than you. Strengthen us to hold firm in the faith you have given to us, so we can witness about Jesus our Lord. Who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
October 30, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 30
Friday, October 30 Morning: Pss. 84; 148 Evening: Pss. 25; 40 Nahum 2:13–3:7 Rev. 13:1–10 Luke 12:13–31 A prayer based on Revelation 13: 1-10 Sovereign and holy God. Living in the world today calls for patient endurance and faithfulness. To hold fast to your word. Other gods call us to worship them, such as power, riches, and politics, just to name a few. Help us live as ones living in your word, as we seek to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. We lift this prayer in the name of that God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.
October 29, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 29
Thursday, October 29 Morning: Pss. 116; 147:12–20 Evening: Pss. 26; 130 Nahum 1:15–2:12 Rev. 12:7–17 Luke 11:53–12:12 A prayer based on Revelation 12: 7 - 17 God of victory, we praise you that the accuser has been defeated. But even in defeat, Satan continues to pursue your people to draw them away from your love and light. But through this pursuit, we know that those who call upon the name of Jesus will have victory over the power of evil and death. We thank you as we hold fast to our testimony of Jesus, who with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.
October 28, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 28
Wednesday, October 28 Morning: Pss. 96; 147:1–11 Evening: Pss. 132; 134 Nahum 1:1–14 Rev. 12:1–6 Luke 11:37–52 A prayer based on Revelation 12: 1-6 God of power and might, we give you thanks for the birth of your Son, Jesus, who has power over all evil. While it may seem that Satan is strong and powerful, help us to see the power we have in Jesus’ name. Who sits enthroned with you and the Holy Spirit to rule and reign for ever and ever. Amen.
October 27, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 27
Tuesday, October 27 Morning: Pss. 12; 146 Evening: Pss. 36; 7 Jonah 3:1–4:11 Rev. 11:14–19 Luke 11:27–36 Powerful and living God, the kingdoms of this world are yours, and you will reign for ever and ever. Open up the heavens for us so we can see your glory as we continue to live faithfully as your children here on earth. As we wait for the fulfillment of your Kingdom, strengthen us to be agents of your Kingdom here and now as we proclaim our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.
October 26, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 26
Monday, October 26 Morning: Pss. 62; 145 Evening: Pss. 73; 9 Jonah 1:17–2:10 Rev. 11:1–14 Luke 11:14–26 A prayer based on Revelation 11: 1-14 Holy and loving God, you have given us the opportunity to be faithful witnesses of your love and grace. We know that faithfully proclaiming your word will bring opposition that could lead to abandonment and even death. Even through that proclamation, you are there, giving us your word and way so others may come and experience the living Christ in us. We lift this prayer in the name of that same Christ, Jesus our Lord. Amen.
October 25, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 25
Sunday, October 25 Morning: Pss. 108; 150 Evening: Pss. 66; 23 Jonah 1:1–17a 1 Cor. 10:15–24 Matt. 18:15–20 A prayer based on 1 Corinthians 10: 15-24 Holy and loving God, we know at times we want to live with one foot in your Kingdom and the other foot in the kingdoms of this world. Help us to train so we can keep both feet fully planted in you. We know that we can do anything we want, but guide us to live our lives for the good of others, through the power of the one who taught us how to live, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
October 24, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 24
Saturday, October 24 Morning: Pss. 122; 149 Evening: Pss. 100; 63 Micah 7:1–7 Rev. 10:1–11 Luke 11:1–13 A prayer based on Revelation 10: 1-11 Holy and powerful God, while we desire to judge the world around us, we know only you are fit to fill that role. Help us accept your Word because, through Jesus, who is the Word, you provide salvation for the whole world. Help us remain steadfast in the Word, which also proclaims judgment for those who stray from your Word and way. Let us live as people who have been set free through the acts of Jesus the Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit are worshiped and glorified for ever and ever. Amen.
October 23, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 23
Friday, October 23 Morning: Pss. 88; 148 Evening: Pss. 6; 20 Micah 6:1–8 Rev. 9:13–21 Luke 10:38–42 A prayer based on Revelation 9: 13-21 God of justice and love, when we look at our own lives, we tend to think we aren’t all that bad. Sure, there are moments when your love shines in and through us, but there are also moments when we forget who we are and whose we are. Give us hearts and minds to seek repentance, so that we may fully live in the way we have learned from Jesus Christ our Lord. Who with you and the Holy Spirit reign for ever and ever. Amen.
October 22, 2026 • 9 Minute Read
Getting off the Sidelines: Every Part Matters
College sports have changed significantly in recent years. One of the biggest changes is NIL, which stands for Name, Image, and Likeness. NIL allows college athletes to earn money through endorsements and other opportunities connected to their name, image, and likeness. In years past, universities and their supporters could get into trouble for providing players with money, cars, or other benefits to entice them to attend a particular school. Today, the landscape looks very different. One consequence of these changes has been the growth of the transfer portal. When players aren’t getting the playing time they want or believe they can find better opportunities elsewhere, they can transfer to another school in search of something better. As many of you know, I’m a Kansas State Wildcat fan. This past weekend, a former Kansas State wide receiver who transferred to another school for a better financial opportunity was spotted on the sideline watching the scoreboard as highlights of the Kansas State–KU game played in the stadium. Someone posted a picture on social media with the caption, “Wishing he was there.” Last year, he caught 41 passes for 712 yards and five touchdowns in just eight games before an injury cut his season short. This year, through five games, he has eight receptions for 89 yards and no touchdowns. I don’t know everything that went into his decision to transfer, and I don’t want to judge him for it. But that picture and those words got me thinking: Sometimes, the place we leave behind is the place where we were meant to make a difference. So why am I talking about college football and the transfer portal in a church blog? Because I think this story reflects something we see in our culture—and sometimes in our churches. When things don’t go the way we hoped, when we feel overlooked, or when change becomes difficult, it can be tempting to believe that the answer is simply to leave and find something better somewhere else. Sometimes a new beginning is necessary, but sometimes God calls us to stay, invest in one another, and become part of the change we hope to see. As your pastor and friend, here is what I believe: Every person who has become part of Royse City Methodist Church has gifts that can bless this church and help us fulfill the mission God has given us. I’ve been reflecting on Ephesians 4:16, which says: “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” This verse offers us a beautiful picture of what it means to be the church. There are three parts of this passage that I want us to consider. First, Everything Begins with Christ: “From Him” The verse immediately before this passage reminds us that Christ is the head of the church. Everything we do as Royse City Methodist Church must begin with him and be offered for his glory. You’ve heard me say that what we do is for God’s glory, others’ gain, and our good. That is more than a saying; it is a guiding principle for our ministry. Whether we are planning a sermon series, organizing a Bible study, serving our neighbors, or preparing a mission event, our first question should always be, “How does this glorify God and help us make disciples of Jesus Christ?” Our church is not ultimately about a building, a program, a personality, or even a pastor. It is about Jesus Christ. He is our foundation, our purpose, and the one who holds us together. When we begin with Christ, our focus shifts from what we want the church to be for us to what God wants to accomplish through us. Second, Every Person Matters: “The Whole Body” Royse City Methodist Church is an intergenerational congregation, and I believe that is one of our greatest strengths. I love seeing our youngest disciples walking around during worship on Sunday mornings, sitting up front and listening to Ms. Wanda or another faithful servant during Young Disciples Time, and serving alongside some of our most seasoned members. Last week, I wish I had taken a picture of little two-year-old Harvey helping his dad move a cafeteria table back into place after worship. It was a simple moment, but it reminded me that serving the church isn’t something we wait to do when we get older. We can begin learning what it means to serve others from our earliest years. I also want to address the recent miscommunication about children helping with the offering. I want to be clear: I want our children to continue participating in this ministry. We simply need to make sure they are scheduled so they know their service is valued and so we can give more children the opportunity to participate. My hope is that we will continue finding meaningful ways for our children to learn, serve, and worship alongside the rest of the congregation. Our children matter. Our youth matter. Every generation has a place in the life and ministry of this church. On Sunday evenings, we have approximately 10 children, six confirmands, and 10 youth gathering to learn about the love of Jesus through fellowship, Scripture, and lessons. Think about that! We have opportunities to help shape the faith of the next generation, build relationships across generations, and show young people what it means to follow Jesus. And it doesn’t stop with our youngest members. Every adult, every family, every longtime member, and every newcomer has something to contribute. Some gifts are visible from the front of the sanctuary; others happen quietly behind the scenes. Some people teach, lead, sing, or organize. Others pray faithfully, offer encouragement, welcome a visitor, or notice when someone needs help. The body needs all of these gifts. Church is not a place where a few people do the work while everyone else watches. It is a community where every person has the opportunity to discover how God can work through them. Third, We Grow Stronger When We Work Together: “Joined and Held Together by Every Supporting Ligament” Paul describes the church as a body whose parts are joined together, each one helping the whole body grow and become stronger in love. Ligaments hold the body together. They may not always be visible, but they are essential to its strength and movement. When a ligament is seriously injured or ruptured, the entire body can be affected. In some ways, that image describes our life together as a church. We have experienced our share of painful disruptions. Some, like the sanctuary fire, were circumstances beyond our control. Others, like the recent misunderstanding about the offering, remind us that even with the best intentions, communication can break down and hurt can occur. We are human. We will not always get everything right. We will misunderstand one another from time to time, and we will face seasons of uncertainty and disappointment. But those moments do not have to define us. Paul reminds us that the body “grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Notice that last phrase: “as each part does its work.” We grow when we serve. We grow when we listen to one another. We grow when we extend grace, work through disagreements, and choose to build one another up rather than tear one another down. We grow when we remember that we belong to Christ and to one another. And we grow when we stop waiting for someone else to make things better and begin asking how God might use us to make a difference. My friends, I believe Royse City Methodist Church is at a point where we need the whole body to step forward. We have an opportunity to look beyond the challenges we have faced and consider what God wants to do through us in the days ahead. Instead of standing on the sidelines, wondering what will happen next, I invite each of us to ask: How can I use my prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness to strengthen the body of Christ at Royse City Methodist Church? How can I pray for this church and the people who call it home? How can I be present and worship faithfully? What gifts has God given me that I can share with others? Where can I serve? How can I tell the story of what Jesus is doing in my life and in our congregation? These are not questions reserved for a few leaders or a handful of dedicated volunteers. They are questions for all of us. Will You Join Me? My friends, I believe God has so much in store for the people and ministries of Royse City Methodist Church. We have neighbors who need to experience the love of Christ. We have children and young people who need to grow in faith. We have people in our community who need to know they are not alone. And we have opportunities to become an even stronger, more faithful witness to the grace of God. I cannot promise that the road ahead will always be easy. We will face challenges, make mistakes, and need to extend grace to one another along the way. But I believe we can move forward together when Christ remains at the center and each of us does our part. I will continue to preach the gospel, lead with prayer, and create opportunities for people to grow in faith and serve others. I want every person who calls Royse City Methodist Church home to know that they matter, that their gifts are needed, and that there is a place for them in the work God is doing here. We are called to serve together, to be renewed, and to be rooted in Christ. So let’s not spend our time wishing we were somewhere else or waiting for someone else to make a difference. Let’s trust God, invest in one another, and discover what can happen when the whole body works together in love. My final question is simple: Will you join me? Be God’s Pastor Chris
October 22, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Daily Prayer for October 22
Thursday, October 22 Morning: Pss. 243; 147: 12-20 Evening: Pss. 81; 116 Micah 5: 1-4, 10-15 Revelation 9: 1-12 Luke 10: 25-37 A prayer based on Revelation 9: 1-12 Holy and loving God, you alone are our strength and shield. Even amid turmoil and hardship, you are never absent and remain in control. Even when we feel like we are facing a strong enemy and that there is no relief in sight, let your mercy and justice reign so we can fully place our trust in Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.
Rev. Dretha Burris
Associate Pastor For Mission
August 26, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Week of August 30
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Sunday, August 30th - 8:45 am: Small Group Ministry Kids Ministry - Age-specific programming starts at 8:45 am at Glenda Arnold ECLC Youth Ministry - Meet in the teacher’s lounge at Glenda Arnold ECLC at 8:45 am Small Groups - Scripture Seekers and Faith Forward meet at 8:45 am at Glenda Arnold ECLC 10 am: Worship - Join us for Sunday service at Glenda Arnold ECLC or online. 6:00 pm: 412 Family Preview Sign up here Monday, August 31st - Tuesday, September 1st - 9am - 12 pm: Good Place Work Day (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer Wednesday, September 2nd - 6:30 pm - Praise Team Practice (Youth Room) Thursday, September 3rd - 1 pm - 7 pm: The Good Place Donation Drop-off- (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer 4 pm - 7 pm: The Good Place Sale (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer 5:30 pm - 7 pm: Our Daily Bread Food Distribution - (Our Daily Bread House) Sign up to Volunteer Friday, September 4th - 9am - 2pm: The Good Place Workday, (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer Saturday, September 5th - 9 am - 2 pm: The Good Place Sale and Donation Drop Off (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer 9 am - 10:30 am: Our Daily Bread Food Distribution (Our Daily Bread House) Sign up to Volunteer Upcoming Events - City Wide Mission Event We ❤️ RC - SEPTEMBER 12 Coming This Fall FAMILY PREVIEW NIGHTS for 412 Sunday Night Ministry Nursery to 5th Grade Want to help out let Ms. Wanda know Sign Up using this link today! Celebrate Ms. Wanda September 13 following Worship at Glenda Arnold ECLC More details to come Life With God Class with Pastor Chris The Life with God series by Grafted Life Ministries is a multi-semester, small-group spiritual formation journey designed to deepen participants' relational connection with God and others. The curriculum guides believers past intellectual knowledge to experience authentic transformation, relational safety, and spiritual fruitfulness in everyday life. Beginning September 17 @ 10amNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message Pastor Jay Durton | 1 Thessalonians 1: 4-8 Head’ em Up is an old cowboy call to get the herd up and moving. Life can take us through unfamiliar territory, but God calls His people to a faith that is active and growing. Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch OnlineSubscribe to our Podcast Community Prayer We carry each other through the spiritual practice of prayer. Here's who we are lifting up this week:How can we pray for you? Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. ❓Questions or comments for the Leadership Board Services: Sundays at 10:00 AM Glenda Arnold ECLC - 1400 FM 1777, Royse City TX 75189 Next Week: September 6- Pastor Dretha concludes our Round Up sermon series link is here See you soon ☀️
August 19, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Week of August 23
Welcome to the weekly roundup 👋 This is your one-stop spot for everything happening in our church family. From kids to adults, small groups to special events, here's how you can get connected over the next seven days. Sunday, August 23rd - 8:45 am: Small Group Ministry Kids Ministry - Age-specific programming starts at 8:45 am at Glenda Arnold ECLC Youth Ministry - Meet in the teacher’s lounge at Glenda Arnold ECLC at 8:45 am Small Groups - Scripture Seekers and Faith Forward meet at 8:45 am at Glenda Arnold ECLC 10 am: Worship - Join us for Sunday service at Glenda Arnold ECLC or online. 6:00 pm: 412 Family Preview Sign up here Monday, August 24th - Tuesday, August 25th - 9am - 12 pm: Good Place Work Day (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer Wednesday, August 26th - 8:00 am: Royse City Chamber - Business During Breakfast (Wesley Hall) 6:30 pm - Praise Team Practice (Youth Room) Thursday, August 27th - 1 pm - 7 pm: The Good Place Donation Drop-off- (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer 4 pm - 7 pm: The Good Place Sale (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer 5:30 pm - 7 pm: Our Daily Bread Food Distribution - (Our Daily Bread House) Sign up to Volunteer Friday, August 28th - 9am - 2pm: The Good Place Workday, (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer Saturday, August 29th - 9 am - 2 pm: The Good Place Sale and Donation Drop Off (FLC) Sign up to Volunteer 9 am - 10:30 am: Our Daily Bread Food Distribution (Our Daily Bread House) Sign up to Volunteer Upcoming Events - City Wide Mission Event We ❤️ RC SUNDAY, AUGUST 23 is the last day to order shirtsOrder Your T-shirt here Coming This Fall FAMILY PREVIEW NIGHTS for 412 Sunday Night Ministry Nursery to 5th Grade Want to help out let Ms. Wanda know Sign Up using this link today! Life With God Class with Pastor Chris The Life with God series by Grafted Life Ministries is a multi-semester, small-group spiritual formation journey designed to deepen participants' relational connection with God and others. The curriculum guides believers past intellectual knowledge to experience authentic transformation, relational safety, and spiritual fruitfulness in everyday life. Beginning September 17 @ 10amNew here? We'd love to connect. This Week's Message | Pastor Chris Everson | Hebrews 10: 35-39 In order to get the round-up going, you need to get in the saddle. As followers of Jesus, we know that the strength we receive in the saddle isn’t our strength, but it’s the faith in Christ that leads us on. Watch last week’s sermon 👇Watch OnlineSubscribe to our Podcast Community Prayer We carry each other through the spiritual practice of prayer. Here's who we are lifting up this week:How can we pray for you? Giving Your generosity makes our work in this city possible. We’re so grateful for you. New to our community? No pressure. Today, just be our guest.Give Now Here Stay Connected 📩 Subscribe to this Collection to get these updates delivered directly to your inbox. 📸 Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. 💬 Pastoral care or questions? Connect with us here. ❓Questions or comments for the Leadership Board Services: Sundays at 10:00 AM Glenda Arnold ECLC - 1400 FM 1777, Royse City TX 75189 Next Week: August 30 - Pastor Jay continues our Round Up sermon series link is here See you soon ☀️