Why do good people so often look the other way? In this episode, Pastor Mark explores the deeper message of the Good Samaritan—not just about helping others, but about feeling with them. In a culture that trains us to avoid pain and disconnect from suffering, Jesus calls his followers to practice active empathy.

You’ll learn how apathy takes root, how empathy opens our hearts, and how compassion shapes us into the image of Christ. This message challenges us to move beyond emotional self-protection and rediscover a faith that feels, stays, and loves—even when it’s uncomfortable.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by suffering or tempted to shut down, this sermon is a powerful reminder of what it means to follow Jesus with an open heart.

The Parable of the Shrewd Manager – What Was Jesus Thinking?

At first glance, Luke 16:1–13 is one of Jesus’ most confusing parables. A dishonest manager gets fired, cuts deals behind his boss’s back, and is praised for it. Then Jesus says, “Be like that guy.” What does this mean?

In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores how Jesus isn’t celebrating dishonesty but calling his followers to be wise, strategic, and generous. In a world driven by wealth, disciples are called to be spiritually savvy—using what we have to invest in what matters most.

Learn how faithful stewardship, intentional living, and bold generosity can reflect God’s kingdom in a world that often gets it wrong.

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📅 Worship with us: Sundays at 9:30 AM (in-person/online) & 11:00 AM (in-person). We’d love to see you there!

Speaker: Pastor Mark Reynolds
Venue: First United Methodist Church (Cocoa Beach, FL)

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🌐 Website: www.revmarkreynolds.com
📘 Facebook: PastorMarkReynolds

What do you feel when you hear the word evangelism? For many of us, it brings up awkward memories—bullhorn preachers, high-pressure pitches, or messages more rooted in fear than love. But in Luke 15, Jesus shows us a different way. Through the parables of the lost sheep and lost coin, he reminds us that sharing our faith isn’t about coercion or performance—it’s about love, presence, and celebration.

In this episode, Pastor Mark explores three faithful and life-giving ways to share your faith:
• Lifestyle Evangelism – letting your actions preach before your words do
• Relational Evangelism – sharing hope through authentic friendships
• Invitational Evangelism – offering a simple “Come and see”

Whether you’ve been nervous about sharing your faith or have felt burned by others who have done it poorly, this message will help you rediscover the joy of participating in God’s mission—and remind you that when one person turns toward grace, heaven throws a party.