What Witness Really Means | Beyond the Sermon

Something Worth Sharing: Part 1 // Pastor Magrey deVega // May 24, 2026

Prior to Jesus’ ascension, he told the disciples that they would be his witnesses throughout the ends of the earth. On the day of Pentecost, the Spirit descended to empower them – and us – to be just that. In Peter’s stirring sermon, he declared that “This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses.” What would it mean for us to be witnesses of the resurrection for others who are seeking new life? What evidence of resurrection within us can we invite people to experience for themselves?    Reflection Questions: 1. What experience of God’s goodness feels most natural for you to share? 2. Which voices or influences are drawing your heart away from God’s peace? 3. How has God guided and sustained you through uncertain or difficult seasons? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

What Witness Really Means | Beyond the Sermon

This week Mat Hotho and Pastor Magrey deVega sit down to unpack what it really means to be a “witness” — and why sharing your story doesn’t have to look loud, confrontational, or perfect. From bracelets and spiritual practices to invitation, vulnerability, and finding faith in everyday life, they explore how ordinary moments can become something worth sharing. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

On The Edge: Part 6 // Grace Bennett // May 17, 2026

In the ascension of Jesus, the disciples went from Jesus being by their side all the time to being on their own. That shift forced them to go from looking up to looking out, from focusing on the presence of Jesus with them to focusing on the work of Jesus all around them. That kind of key life-stage transition is emblematic of life itself. To follow Jesus, we need to look forward, and then we find Jesus summoning us into the realities of life.    Reflection Questions: 1. Have you ever felt “behind” in your faith journey compared to others? How does this parable challenge that way of thinking? 2. Why do you think it can be difficult to accept that God’s grace is freely given rather than earned? 3. What is one practical way you can help someone feel welcomed, supported, or encouraged in their relationship with God? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Everyone Finds Faith Differently | Beyond the Sermon

This week on Beyond the Sermon, Mat Hotho sits down with Youth Sunday preacher Grace Bennett to talk about fairness, faith, and what it’s like seeing Bible stories through fresh eyes. From school pressures and ChatGPT shortcuts to helping friends explore Christianity for the first time, Grace reflects on how faith grows differently for everyone. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

Ever Had a Moment You Couldn’t Explain? | Beyond The Sermon

This week Mat Hotho returns to Beyond the Sermon to sit down with Pastor Magrey deVega and unpack the idea of “positive disintegration” — the moments in life that shake us, challenge us, and ultimately shape us. Together, they reflect on childhood fears, experiences of the Holy Spirit, and why spiritual growth often begins with discomfort, uncertainty, and learning to trust that everything will be okay. Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps