Aurora Methodist layman takes part in sermon series

Ray Termini has a view of Jesus. The Aurora resident and Flowing Forth United Methodist Church congregant shared his view Jan. 19 in "Who is this Man?" Pastor Derek Rogers' January-February sermon series.

"Jesus is the physical manifestation of God's compassion for us," Termini said. "We are never told that He had compassion on someone because they deserved it. It was only because they were in need."

Termini said he first learned about Jesus was from teaching nuns in Catholic grade school. He added, "What I especially liked about Jesus was his message to 'consider the least of these' because our large family fell into this group, and so did many of our friends and neighbors.

"Jesus considered the least to be children, women, prisoners, foreigners and those who were sick and in need. This could be why I like to give a bit of extra attention to consider the outcasts and wandering birds on the streets asking for a few dollars or whatever."

"Studying God's word helps me to understand Him better, and to recognize His voice when He speaks to me. I knew it was Jesus' voice urging me to join a ministry related to the least of these. He holds my hand and strengthens me when I mentor and work with incarcerated youth at Illinois Youth Center and Warrenville detention centers."

Pastor Rogers' eight-Sunday sermon series, based on the Gospel of Luke, began Jan. 5 and runs through Feb. 23. Flowing Forth UMC meets at Aurora Christian School, 2255 Sullivan Road in Aurora. Worship services are held at 10 a.m. The public is invited. Parking and admission are free.

On Jan. 26, Rogers' sermon series explored "Status Quo Defier," based on Luke 6:1-11.

The series will continue on Feb. 2 with "Radical Reformer," Luke 6:20-49; Feb. 9 with "Chain Breaker," Luke 7:36-70; Feb. 16 with "Miracle Worker," Luke 8:22-56; and Feb. 23 with "Messiah and Lord," Luke 9:28-36.

Rev. Rogers said, "People who encountered Jesus were constantly trying to figure out who he was and what he was about. Even his most dedicated followers were often left wondering, 'Who is this man?' During this sermon series we'll consider Jesus' life, message, and ministry as detailed in the Gospel of Luke to seek to discover Jesus anew for our lives today."

Call (630) 239-2321 for more information.