Welcome to LJUMC

Introduction Our culture is deeply influenced by social media and selfies, encouraging perfection, polish, and performance. We filter our photos, edit our words, and present the version of ourselves we think will be most accepted. But every now and then, someone breaks through the noise with an act so honest, so vulnerable, it cuts through all the bravado and goes straight to the heart. As we continue our #JesusTrending series, we encounter Mary—who doesn’t hold back. She pours out expensive…

Introduction Some stories are meant to inspire. Others are meant to disturb. This week’s parable does both—just not in the way we might expect. As we continue our #JesusTrending series, we encounter one of Jesus’ most familiar stories: a son insults his father, burns through his inheritance, and returns home dirty, desperate, and undeserving. But rather than a lecture or a consequence, he gets a party. We often hear this as a heartwarming tale of forgiveness—but for listeners in Jesus’…

Introduction Social media gives us a lot of options when people become too much—unfollowing, unfriending, even blocking. But sometimes, we just need a break, so we hit the Snooze for 30 Days button. It gives people (including us) time to cool down, reflect, or maybe even change. As we continue our #JesusTrending series, we explore a story where a fig tree is about to be cut down. But instead of removing it completely, the gardener asks for more time—one last…

Introduction We continue our #JesusTrending series by looking at influence—who we follow, what shapes our decisions, and how external voices impact our identity. With just a few clicks, we can follow, like, and share voices that shape the way we see ourselves and the world. But how often do we stop to ask: Who am I really following? Social pressure isn’t new. Even in Jesus’ time, people tried to shape his path, urging him to avoid danger or fit into…