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

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

On The Edge: Part 3 // Pastor Magrey deVega // May 10, 2026

Just as last week’s text provided proof of the presence of God the Father, this week’s text shows us evidence of the Holy Spirit. It is through our love of one another and our commitment to Jesus’ commandments that we see the work of the Holy Spirit. Why? Because it is only through the power of the Holy Spirit, who advocates on our behalf, that we are empowered to do what God asks of us. When we fulfill God’s call, we demonstrate the reality of the Holy Spirit, alive and well in the world.   Reflection Questions: 1. When have loneliness or fear opened you to deeper trust in God? 2. How have you experienced the Holy Spirit comforting or guiding your life? 3. What helps you remember that you are never spiritually orphaned or alone? Find out more at HydeParkUMC.org/NextSteps

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