Hyde Park United Methodist

This week on Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho kick off our new series on history’s most powerful prayers by diving into the Wesley Covenant Prayer—a bold act of surrender that still hits hard today. They reflect on how this prayer challenges our culture of self-fulfillment and invites us to offer every part of our lives to God. Join us as we explore what it means to live with purpose, trust, and a heart that says, “Take me.” https://www.jesuitseastois.org/news-feed/an-expanded-version-of-st-ignatius-loyolas-suscipe-prayer Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if true renewal begins with surrender? John Wesley’s prayer for covenant renewal is a powerful reminder to shift our focus away from ourselves and toward obedience and surrender to God.   Reflection Questions: 1. What would praying “Suscipe” to God each day mean for you? 2. What new insights does the Wesley Covenant Prayer give you? 3. How will you apply the Wesley Covenant Prayer to the way you live? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if God’s intent is to deliver us from evil, not use it? The Lord’s Prayer reminds us that God stands against evil, desiring our deliverance. The final line is a benedictory alleluia, declaring that all of who we are belongs to God, for all creation is part of His kingdom. Reflection Questions: 1. What would it mean to give God all of what you have and do? 2. How can you make your life a living Temple in which God resides? 3. What new insights do you have about the Lord’s Prayer, and what difference will it make? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho wrap up our series on the Lord’s Prayer by asking a surprising question: why do we say a final line that doesn’t actually appear in scripture? They explore how tradition, worship, and scripture have long been in conversation—shaping how we pray and how we see God. From ancient manuscripts to personal reflections, this episode uncovers the deeper meaning behind “forever and ever, Amen.” Join us as we reflect on what it means to see our everyday lives through the lens of eternity. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

In this episode of Beyond the Sermon, Mat Hotho and Pastor Magrey deVega reflect on Sunday’s message and get personal about their own prayer lives. What does it look like to pray when you’re not sure what to say — or when you’re not even sure you want to pray? Whether you’re a long-time believer or just exploring faith, this conversation invites you to think differently about what it means to connect with God. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps