Central United Methodist Church (Arlington, Virginia) Sermon Podcast

Singing Toward What We Cannot Yet See

• Central United Methodist Church • Season 72 • Episode 85

🎶 Faith That Sings: Songs of Heaven and Resistance

 Scripture: Hebrews 11:1–16

This week at Central UMC, we turned to the stirring words of Hebrews 11—a chapter sometimes called the “Hall of Faith”—to reflect on the kind of belief that doesn’t just survive adversity but sings through it. Through the stories of Abraham, Sarah, Noah, and others, we were reminded that faith is not wishful thinking—it is confident assurance. It's the ability to live as if God’s promises are already true.

Pastor Sarah guided us through a powerful reflection on how faith has always found expression in song—especially in traditions like Southern Gospel, where music born from suffering becomes a vision of resistance. We explored how singing about heaven is not an escape from reality but a prophetic protest against the brokenness of the world. From enslaved people lifting their voices in hope to revival tents filled with trembling hearts and triumphant songs, we are part of a great chorus that believes heaven is coming—and is already breaking in.

As part of our Singing Our Faith series, this service invites us to sing not just for joy, but for justice. To let our music proclaim a better world, even when we cannot yet see it.

🌀 Reflection Questions:

  • What does it mean to have a faith that not only endures suffering but also resists it?
  • How might our church reflect a heaven-rooted hope that works for justice in the present?

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