Hyde Park United Methodist

This week on Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho explore what it means to keep Christ at the center of our political lives. Using Jesus’ famous words—“Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s”—they unpack how faith can guide us through today’s culture of division, misinformation, and echo chambers. From the craftiness of the Pharisees to the traps of modern media, they draw a line between ancient wisdom and our digital age, reminding us that discernment, balance, and love remain timeless spiritual practices. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if faith and politics can coexist without partisanship? When the Pharisees asked Jesus about religion and empire, He responded, "Render unto Caesar the things that belong to Caesar, and to God the things that belong to God." His answer offers key principles on how followers of Jesus can engage in politics while staying true to their faith. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if the balance between extremes leads to growth? The via media, or “way through the center,” is a key part of Wesleyan belief, guiding us to take the best of both extremes and create a dynamic, living center. Reflection Questions: 1. In what ways are you concerned about polarization today? 2. What value do you find in the via media, the way of the center? 3. How might you practice listening and empathy with those who disagree with you? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

This week on Beyond the Sermon, Pastor Magrey deVega and Mat Hotho unpack how faith can guide us through a world of deep division. Drawing from Paul’s words to the Corinthians, they explore what it means to seek unity in a polarized time—not by watering down convictions, but by finding the best in one another’s perspectives. From the Methodist idea of the “via media,” or middle way, to the wisdom of Wesley’s three simple rules, they reflect on how love, empathy, and curiosity can help us stay centered when everything else feels split apart. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What if our gifts are meant to make a difference? Each of us is given a unique set of skills and abilities by God to impact the world around us. Each of us is gifted with a unique set of skills and abilities that God wants us to use to make a difference.  Reflection Questions: 1. What specific God-given skills, abilities, gifts and talents entrusted to you to use in your life? 2. What "what ifs" or fears might be stopping you from stepping into greater faithfulness with your gifts?  3. What action might you take this week to put your "talents" to work for the Lord and His Kingdom?  Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps