A Moment for Mission
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that can’t be shaken, let’s continue to express our gratitude. With this gratitude, let’s serve in a way that is pleasing to God with respect and awe, because our God really is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:28-29, CEB
Have you ever tried to build something on unstable ground? Whether it’s a house, a relationship, or a calling—it’s nearly impossible to build something lasting when the foundation keeps shifting.
Hebrews 12 offers us this assurance: God’s kingdom is unshakable. Unlike the changing world around us, God’s purpose stands firm. And as people of faith, we are called to respond with gratitude and faithful service.
But how do we build on that foundation together?
In The United Methodist Church, one of the ways we do this is through something called connectional giving—a system that allows us to combine our resources to support ministries we could never accomplish alone. Through the World Service Fund, we invest in core missions of the church.
One core ministry supported by this fund is the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM). It’s a long name, but it simply means that United Methodists care deeply about helping people discover their calling—whether that’s as a pastor, a teacher, a campus minister, or a student pursuing faithful leadership in the world.
GBHEM provides scholarships, leadership training, and support to those exploring a life of service. It empowers people to follow God’s call—often when they wouldn’t be able to do it on their own. Without this ministry, there would be no trained pastors to lead congregations, no missionaries sent to serve around the globe, and no support for students on college campuses seeking to grow in faith.
What we give to GBHEM through the World Service Fund may feel small—but it builds something strong. It strengthens the foundation of the Church and helps ensure the next generation of leaders is ready to run the race with faith, integrity, and vision.
We live in a world where many things shake and shift—but God’s mission is steady. And we are invited to take part.
Reflection Question:
How can I use what I’ve been given to help build something unshakable for others?
Children’s Message
Title: Building Something Strong Together
Materials: Building Blocks
Good morning, friends!
Have you ever built a tower with blocks? What happens if the bottom isn’t strong or if someone bumps it? (Let the children respond, but guide them to answer it falls)
That’s right! When something isn’t steady, it falls. But today, the scripture we read from the Bible tells us that God gives us something special—a kingdom that can’t be shaken. That means it’s strong and steady, and it won’t fall down. And the best part is—we get to help build it!
We help build God’s strong kingdom by loving others, sharing, and giving thanks to God. And guess what? Grown-ups help too! Some go to special schools to learn how to be pastors or missionaries—and our church helps them get ready.
Have you ever helped someone build something? Like stacking blocks with a friend or helping set up chairs at church? It’s easier when we work together, right?
When we give money at church, some of it goes to something called the World Service Fund. That money helps a group called the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry—they help people learn how to become faithful leaders in the Church and in the world.
So even when we’re small, we’re part of something big—helping others follow God’s call and build something that lasts. It’s like we’re all building something strong together—and no one has to build it alone.
Let’s say this together: “God’s kingdom can’t be shaken!”
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for giving us a kingdom that can’t be shaken. Help us to love, serve, and be part of building your Church. Amen.
Offertory Prayer
Gracious God,
You have given us a kingdom that cannot be shaken. With thankful hearts, we return a portion of what you have entrusted to us. Bless these gifts, that through the World Service Fund and the work of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, new leaders will rise, ministries will grow, and lives will be shaped by your grace.
Strengthen our connection as your Church, and use us to pass on a faith that endures. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries
Unshakable and Holy God, we bring these gifts before you, not as mere offerings, but as acts of faith in your unshakable kingdom. Though the world around us trembles, we trust in your steadfast love, knowing that in Christ, we are welcomed, transformed, and sent forth to serve. Bless these gifts, that they may be used to build your justice and mercy, bringing hope to the broken and light to the weary. With grateful hearts, we offer ourselves alongside these gifts, that we may be signs of your grace in the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Newsletter Nugget
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our “God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:28-29, CEB
Hebrews 12:28 reminds us that we are part of a kingdom that cannot be shaken—so we offer our lives with gratitude and reverence. In The United Methodist Church, our shared giving through the World Service Fund helps sustain ministries that nurture the next generation of leaders through the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM). GBHEM supports seminarians, clergy development, scholarships, and campus ministries that shape lives for faithful service. Without this connection, there would be no missionaries, no pastors, and no global outreach.
Join us this Sunday for worship as we give thanks for God’s unshakable kingdom and those who help lead it.