Why Faith Feels So Uncertain Sometimes | Beyond The Sermon

Why Faith Feels So Uncertain Sometimes | Beyond The Sermon

John Barolo, Discipleship Director, and Pastor Magrey deVega sit down to unpack this week’s sermon on Philip’s question, “Just show us God.” Together, they explore doubt, deconstruction, and what it really looks like to experience God—not in big, dramatic moments, but in the ordinary, everyday rhythms of life. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

On The Edge: Part 4 // Pastor Magrey deVega // May 3, 2026

Phillip speaks for all of us in wanting to see tangible proof of God’s presence. Clearly, if God were as plainly visible and audible as God appeared to be throughout the Bible, there would be very little cause for atheism and agnosticism today. Nonetheless, Jesus gives Phillip an intriguing response: If you’re looking for evidence of God, look at the life and teachings of Jesus himself. He and the father were one. Likewise, if we are looking for the presence of God today, we can embody that presence through our own faithful living and adherence to God’s commands.    Reflection Questions: 1. Where are you longing to see evidence of God in difficult times? 2. How might your actions become visible signs of God’s presence to others? 3. What need around you is inviting you to do the work of Jesus? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

The Gap Between Hearing God and Following Him | Beyond the Sermon

Michael Dougherty and Pastor Magrey deVega sit down to unpack this week’s sermon, exploring the image of the Good Shepherd, the challenge of silencing competing voices, and what it really means to listen and obey. From sacred music to daily spiritual rhythms, they reflect on how we discern God’s voice in the middle of noise, comparison, and real life. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

On The Edge: Part 3 // Pastor Magrey deVega // April 26, 2026

In this iconic passage, Jesus equates himself to the gate through which the sheep will not just find security within the fold; they will hear the shepherd’s voice clearly amid the threats around them. Living on the edge of resurrection means constant attentiveness to the shepherd’s calling, so that when we find ourselves lost and confused, we can follow God’s way home.    Reflection Questions: 1. What competing voices in your life make it difficult to hear Jesus? 2. How can you create space to listen and respond to God daily? 3. Where might God be inviting obedience through a voice you recognize? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Why Change Takes Longer Than You Think | Beyond the Sermon

Mat Hotho sits down with Pastor Magrey deVega to unpack this week’s message and talk honestly about why change doesn’t always happen overnight. From doubt to daily habits, they explore what it really looks like to grow, stay grounded, and find meaning in the middle of real life.  Find out more about us and join a small group at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps