The Core Values of Monona United Methodist Church
- Radical Hospitality
- Passionate Worship
- Intentional Faith Development
- Risk Taking Mission and Service
- Extravagant Generosity
Monona UMC’s core values reflect its deep commitment to Christ’s teachings and the Methodist tradition, shaping a community that embodies God’s love in transformative ways. Below is a breakdown of each core value through theological perspectives, biblical commentary (Old and New Testament), and cultural context, all in an uplifting and encouraging tone.
1. Radical Hospitality
Theological Perspective:
Radical hospitality is more than just politeness—it is a spiritual practice rooted in God’s unconditional love. Hospitality in the Christian tradition means welcoming all people as Christ himself (Matthew 25:35). In Wesleyan theology, this reflects God’s prevenient grace—God’s love that goes ahead of us, preparing a place for all to belong before they even arrive.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Genesis 18:1-8 tells the story of Abraham and Sarah showing hospitality to three strangers, who turn out to be divine messengers. This teaches that in welcoming others, we welcome God.
- New Testament: Luke 14:13-14—Jesus instructs, “When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed.” Hospitality is not about comfort; it is about embracing those who are often left out.
Cultural Context:
In a world where loneliness and exclusion are prevalent, radical hospitality creates a countercultural space of belonging and love. Monona UMC’s commitment to welcoming everyone—regardless of background, race, gender, or status—mirrors Christ’s open arms and transforms lives.
2. Passionate Worship
Theological Perspective:
Passionate worship is an expression of love, reverence, and joy in God’s presence. Worship is not passive—it is a heartfelt, transformative experience where we encounter the living God. Methodism teaches that worship is both personal and communal, drawing us deeper into God’s grace.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Psalm 100:2—“Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” Worship is a response to God’s goodness and faithfulness.
- New Testament: John 4:23-24—Jesus says, “True worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.” Passionate worship is not about rituals; it is about authentic encounters with God.
Cultural Context:
People today crave authenticity and connection. Passionate worship at Monona UMC is a space where people experience God’s love, find renewal, and build community. Whether through music, prayer, or preaching, passionate worship ignites faith and changes hearts.
3. Intentional Faith Development
Theological Perspective:
Faith does not grow by accident—it requires intentionality. Methodism teaches that discipleship is a lifelong journey of growing in grace through Scripture, prayer, study, and action. Faith is not static; it is dynamic and ever-deepening.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Proverbs 2:3-5 encourages believers to seek wisdom “as for hidden treasure”—faith development requires effort and dedication.
- New Testament: 2 Peter 3:18—“Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Discipleship is a continuous journey toward spiritual maturity.
Cultural Context:
In an age of distraction, intentional faith development means prioritizing spiritual growth amid busy lives. Monona UMC provides opportunities for learning, discussion, and mentorship, ensuring that faith is nurtured with purpose and depth.
4. Risk-Taking Mission and Service
Theological Perspective:
Christian mission is not meant to be safe or comfortable—it requires boldness and trust in God. Risk-taking service means stepping beyond what is familiar, confronting injustice, and embracing discomfort for the sake of God’s kingdom. John Wesley lived by this principle, ministering among the poor and oppressed despite opposition.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Esther 4:14—Esther risked her life to advocate for her people, showing that faith often requires bold action.
- New Testament: Matthew 25:40—“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Serving others—especially the marginalized—is serving Christ himself.
Cultural Context:
In a society that values comfort and security, risk-taking mission challenges believers to go beyond their comfort zones. Whether advocating for justice, feeding the hungry, or welcoming refugees, Monona UMC embodies faith in action, trusting that God moves in courageous love.
5. Extravagant Generosity
Theological Perspective:
Generosity is not about giving leftovers—it is about giving our best to God and others. Extravagant generosity reflects God’s own nature: God gives abundantly, not sparingly (John 3:16). In Methodist theology, generosity is a spiritual discipline that transforms both the giver and the receiver.
Biblical Commentary:
- Old Testament: Malachi 3:10—God invites people to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse” and promises overflowing blessings. This teaches that generosity is an act of faith.
- New Testament: 2 Corinthians 9:7—“God loves a cheerful giver.” Generosity should come from the heart, not from obligation.
Cultural Context:
In a culture often driven by scarcity and materialism, extravagant generosity models a different way of living—one of abundance, trust, and selflessness. Monona UMC’s commitment to giving generously—whether through time, resources, or love—makes God’s grace visible in powerful ways.
Conclusion
Monona UMC’s core values are not just ideals—they are a way of life. These values reflect a bold, Christ-centered faith that welcomes all, worships passionately, grows intentionally, serves courageously, and gives abundantly.
By living out radical hospitality, passionate worship, intentional faith development, risk-taking mission, and extravagant generosity, Monona UMC shines as a beacon of hope, love, and transformation in the world.
