Central United Methodist Church (Arlington, Virginia) Sermon Podcast
An audio podcast of the weekly message preached at Central United Methodist Church in Arlington, Virginia. You're invited to join us online for worship on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Visit us on the web at cumcballston.org to learn how to join us for worship via zoom or facebook live. You're invited to join our congregation where we worship God, serve others, and embrace all.
Central United Methodist Church (Arlington, Virginia) Sermon Podcast
Let Go: Leaving Behind What We Don’t Need
"Let Go: Leaving Behind What We Don’t Need"
Scripture: Exodus 16
On this Memorial Day weekend, we remember not just those we’ve lost, but the quiet grief that comes with change — even good change. In Exodus 16, the Israelites are no longer enslaved, but freedom brings uncertainty. They miss Egypt — not the cruelty, but the comfort and predictability of what they knew.
This week’s message explores what it means to let go of what no longer serves us — the habits, assumptions, or comforts that can keep us tethered to the past. God meets the Israelites in their fear and hunger, not with judgment, but with daily provision: manna, quiet and sufficient, like grace itself.
What do we still carry from our own “Egypt”? And do we trust God to provide just enough for the journey ahead?
Sermon Reflection Questions
1. Butterfly Fact: A chrysalis is a hard exoskeleton that the caterpillar forms when it's time to transform. The chrysalis keeps the caterpillar safe for a time during metamorphosis and is ultimately discarded when the new butterfly is ready to come out. What safe spaces and comfort zones have you outgrown? How does our protective armor sometimes impede growth?
2. What does it look like for you to trust God’s provision one day at a time, especially when you’re in a season of transition or uncertainty?
3. When have you experienced a time of spiritual “wilderness” that turned out to be a season of preparation or transformation? What did you learn about God, and about yourself, while waiting and trusting in that in-between space?