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Hi Church Family, This morning, we’ll continue our Advent journey with a message of peace. We live in a world that talks about peace often—and experiences it rarely. So when Scripture announces peace in the middle of turmoil, it’s worth paying attention. Something unexpected is happening in these Advent texts, something that invites us to see God, ourselves, and our neighbors differently. Let’s gather to hear a message that just might shift the way we understand peace. Please invite your family and friends. Everyone is welcome! You are loved, Pastor Randall

Tonight at 6:00pm, come experience the magic of Christmas as St. Stephen and First Mesquite UMC present The Carol of the Toys. This special performance is free to attend, and a love offering will be taken up toward the end of the show. We hope you’ll join us for an evening of music, joy, and Christmas spirit.

Tomorrow!!! 🎄✨ You’re Invited to Our Christmas Musical: Carol of the Toys! ✨🎄 St. Stephen UMC is excited to present Carol of the Toys, a heartwarming holiday musical by Semsen Music where forgotten toys come to life and discover the true meaning of giving, friendship, and love. This joyful performance features our Youth & Young Disciples, along with youth from First UMC Mesquite. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the season and support our young performers! 📅 December 6 🕕 6:00 PM 📍 St. Stephen UMC 🎟 Admission is free — a love offering will be gladly accepted. Come enjoy an evening of music, story, and Christmas cheer for the whole family! 🌟🎁🎶

✨ Join us for Advent! ✨ This year we’re journeying From the Manger, exploring how the hope of Christ is born into our world and our lives. We invite you and your family to worship, celebrate, and prepare your hearts with us throughout this Advent season. From special services to our church musical and Christmas Eve worship, there’s something meaningful for everyone. 🕯️ Come expectant. Come hopeful. Come as you are. Let’s walk together toward the light of Christ. #Advent #FromTheManger #UMC #PrepareHimRoom #AdventSeason #HopePeaceJoyLove

Hi Church Family, I hope everyone had a happy Thanksgiving! I am so thankful for each of you and for the powerful ministry happening through St. Stephen. You continue to feed people—spiritually and physically—and boldly speak out for LGBTQ+ and immigrant justice in uncertain times, to name a few. You embody hope for those who have been hurt by the church, and I’m honored to serve alongside you in the Mesquite community. Thank you for the countless ways you share God’s unconditional love and help others become followers of Christ. As we begin Advent this Sunday, we anticipate the coming of the Incarnate Word—the One laid in a feeding trough, foreshadowing the feeding of people both spiritually and physically. Together, we’ll explore how hope is born in ordinary places and how that same hope continues to meet us today. Join us as we reflect on the story of the long-awaited Savior. We can’t wait to welcome you: Classes begin at 9:30 a.m., and Worship follows at 10:50 a.m. Please invite your family and friends to share in this season of hopeful anticipation! And if you’d like to help transform lives this Christmas, you can visit our website to make a year-end gift. Wishing you a joyful and peaceful Thanksgiving! You are loved, Pastor Randall Lucas

Happy Thanksgiving! Today we pause to give thanks for the goodness of God and the beautiful community we share. As we remember the heart of Jesus’ upside-down kingdom—gratitude, grace, and generosity—we’re reminded that true blessing isn’t found in what we have, but in the love we give and receive. May your day be filled with peace, joy, and moments that remind you of God’s faithful presence. We are deeply grateful for our church family and the hope we carry together in Christ.

Midweek Check-In 🙏💕 As we move through our week, let’s pause and reflect: Where have you seen God’s “upside-down kingdom” at work—in kindness you didn’t expect, forgiveness you didn’t deserve, or strength you didn’t think you had? Take a moment to breathe, pray, and thank God for the surprising ways He shows up. How can you share Jesus’ upside-down love with someone today?

Today we learned that Jesus’ kingdom isn’t like any other kingdom—it’s upside down! Instead of crowns and castles, Jesus shows His power through love, kindness, and forgiveness. In our story, even while on the cross, Jesus forgave others and welcomed a man who asked to be with Him. It reminds us that God’s love is bigger than our mistakes and that Jesus always invites us into His family. Kids, this week look for ways to show “upside-down love” by being kind even when it’s hard, forgiving quickly, and choosing love first. #StStephenUMC #InclusiveChurch #FaithForAllAges #LivingByFaith #ReconcilingUMC #ChildrensTime #TrustInGod #InclusiveFaith #StStephenKids #UnitedMethodistChurch #GodsFamily #UMC #ChurchFamily #MesquiteTX #CommunityOfFaith

Hi Church family, Have you looked around lately and wondered if things will ever get better? The early followers of Jesus wondered the same thing in their own turbulent world. This Sunday, we’ll explore a story that speaks directly into our longing for justice, peace, and hope. It may challenge the way we think about power and change. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday! Classes: 9:30 am Worship: 10:50 am On December 6th, we’ll celebrate our Youth and Kids Christmas Musical, Carol of the Toys—and we need your help to make the evening extra sweet! We’ll be selling slices of desserts during the event, and we’re asking for donations of pies, cakes, or brownies. If you’re able to provide a dessert, please contact Jennifer Keltner at keltnerjen@yahoo.com for more information. Please bring your dessert to the church by 4:30 p.m. on December 6th. Thank you for supporting our kids and helping make this special night even sweeter! See you Sunday!!! You are loved, Pastor Randall

As we move through the week, we’re reminded that life can bring moments of joy, moments of challenge, and everything in between. But no matter what we face, God’s love remains constant: patient, kind, and unfailing, just as we were reminded in 1 Corinthians 13. Today, we invite you to pause and look for God’s love at work in your life. Finish the sentence: ✨ “Today I thank God for _____.” ✨ Your gratitude—big or small—helps us see how God continues to move, sustain, and love us deeply. Share below so we can celebrate God’s goodness together!