Richland Center Free Methodist Church

What is God’s will for humanity? It’s a question that has been asked throughout history and answered time and time again through Scripture. From the words of the prophets to the teachings of Jesus, God’s desire for all people has always been clear: reconciliation, redemption, and relationship with Him.
In 1 Timothy 2:3-4, we’re reminded that God “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” His will isn’t hidden or mysterious—it’s rooted in love, justice, and grace, calling each of us to turn to Him and live in harmony with His purpose.
This week, we’ll reflect on God’s universal will, exploring how it impacts not only our individual lives but also how we are called to share His love with others. Join us as we discover what it means to align our hearts with God’s desire for all people.
Recorded January 19th, 2025Message by Pastor Tim Ward

From the earliest days of the church in Acts, God has called His people to be participants in His mission. The local church is the living, breathing body of Christ, equipped and empowered to bring the good news to the world.
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to “go and make disciples of all nations,” a calling that begins right where we are, in our local communities. Paul echoes this in 2 Corinthians 5:20, describing believers as Christ’s ambassadors, entrusted with the message of reconciliation. The local church embodies this mission, bridging the gap between God’s love and the world’s needs.
Let's explore what it means to be God’s missionary people—how we, as the local church, are called to live with purpose, serve with love, and reflect His light in a world longing for hope.
Recorded January 12th, 2025Message by Pastor Tim Ward

The account of the wise men traveling from afar to worship the newborn King continues to resonate deeply as a reflection of our heart’s longing for God. These magi, guided by a star, remind us that faith often begins with a small light—a glimpse of God’s presence breaking into our darkness. 
What “light” are we following today? The wise men were attentive to signs of God’s activity in the world, searching the heavens and their hearts for meaning. They didn’t have all the answers, but they had the faith to take the next step. Proverbs 3:5-6 echoes this journey of trust: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Let's celebrate the Epiphany and reflect on what it means to follow the light of Christ today.
Recorded January 5th, 2025Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture:  Matthew 2:1-12

We all have expectations for the perfect gift, yet sometimes what we receive is far from what we imagined. In this week’s message, Pastor Tim reflects on the ultimate gift—Jesus Christ—and the truth that His brokenness brings us healing.
Through Isaiah 53, we’ll explore how the suffering of Christ reveals the depth of God’s love and how His sacrifice transforms what appears broken into something beautiful and redemptive.
Recorded December 29th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Isaiah 53

Why did God choose that specific time and place for Jesus to be born? In this Christmas Eve message, Pastor Tim explores the significance of Christ’s birth and the perfect timing of God’s plan. Through Luke 2:1-7 and Galatians 4:4-7, we discover how Jesus came at just the right time and place to bring salvation, redemption, and hope to a lost world.
Recorded December 24th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim Ward

Why did God choose that specific time and place for Jesus to be born? Pastor Tim explores the significance of Christ’s birth and the perfect timing of God’s plan. Through Luke 2:1-7 and Galatians 4:4-7, we discover how Jesus came at just the right time and place to bring salvation, redemption, and hope to a lost world.
Recorded December 22nd, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Luke 2:1-7 and Galatians 4:4-7

In this sermon from December 18, 2016, Pastor Erik explores the incredible significance of Jesus’s birth and what it means for us today. He takes a closer look at the incarnation—God becoming human—and explains how it’s more than just a step toward salvation; it’s an invitation to experience a deeper relationship with God.
Pastor Erik reflects on how Israel’s journey moved from following laws to embracing a more personal faith and challenges us to think about how we respond to the nativity story. By looking at the different reactions to Jesus’s birth, he reminds us that Christmas isn’t just about celebrating—it’s about letting the love and grace of Christ shape how we live, especially during the holidays.
Recorded December 18th, 2016Message by Pastor Erik AndersonScripture: Luke 2:16-19

What makes Christmas truly special? It’s not the decorations or the gifts—it’s Christ, our Savior and Redeemer! His gift is the foundation of the love, hope, and joy we experience as Christians. This week, Pastor Tim shares a message inspired by Luke 2, where the angels proclaim the good news of Christ’s birth to the shepherds. Just as they were called to rejoice and share in the joy of that holy night, we too are called to carry Christ’s light into our homes and families. 
Join us as we explore how the spirit of Christmas—centered on Christ’s love—can transform our hearts and homes, making this season one of true happiness and joy, and reflecting the greatest gift of all to the world.
Recorded December 8th, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Luke 2:8-14

In the story of Jesus’ birth, we see an unexpected truth: the Savior of the world entered into humble surroundings, born in a manger because there was no room in the inn. This week, Pastor Tim explores what this means for us today. How often do we find ourselves too busy or too distracted to make space for God in our lives? What does it look like to give Him the room He deserves?
Join us as we reflect on the humility of Christ’s arrival and the question: Where does God fit into your life? Together, we’ll uncover how to clear the space for His presence in our hearts and lives.
Recorded December 1st, 2024Message by Pastor Tim WardScripture: Luke 2:1-7, John 1:18

With this week’s service featuring a special Children’s Skit, we are revisiting a powerful message from July 8th, 2018. Special guest Rev. Bruce Peterson challenges us to live lives rooted in the truth of God’s Word, drawing inspiration from 2 John 4. In a world increasingly at odds with biblical values, he explores what it means to walk in obedience, hold fast to God’s commandments, and embody Christ’s love in action. Through vivid illustrations and a call to personal commitment, Rev. Peterson invites listeners to reflect on their own walk of faith and to stand boldly for the truth in all aspects of life.
Recorded July 8th, 2018Message by Rev. Bruce Peterson