Jamey's Newsletter: Sunday, January 23, 2022
Recently, this restaurant that I enjoy dining at changed the menu, and my favorite dish was no longer listed. I asked the waiter if I could have my original and she said our cook could do anything you like. This is customer service at its best.
Have you ever wished God was like a short-order cook? When life doesn’t go as you planned and you didn’t ask for what was on your menu, it would be nice if we could go to God and say, “Can you cook up something else? I don’t like the choices I have been given.”
Of course, this isn’t how life works, and it isn’t how God functions in our lives. Jesus was clear, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus never promised to get rid of the mess. But, he did promise to be with us in the midst of the mess. So, take heart, whatever you have on your plate at this moment, Jesus is ready to dine with you.
Jamey
Belonging in Community
Weekly Prayer
Lord, the ground sure does feel shaky and unstable lately. Guide us to plant ourselves on the sure foundation of your truth and grace.
Forgive us for allowing ourselves to be trapped in the quicksand of popular opinion and selfish living.
Remind us again that we are surrounded by your amazing grace and abiding love.
Thank you for sending Jesus to rescue us. Take us by the hand and lead us to where you are asking us to be with others. Amen.
Meme of the Week
Dad Joke
What does a cow use to do math? A cow-culator.
Why are snails bad at racing? They’re sluggish.
I have been thinking………..
I recently read an article on Noah, the Ark, and the destructive flood. The biblical story celebrates Noah’s obedience. Genesis 6:9 says, “This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God.”
As the floodwaters came upon the land, Noah and his family stayed safely secure inside the big boat. No doubt that people on the outside begged to be let inside.
I am struggling with Noah staying dry while everyone else drowns. Before you say this was God’s will, it is only a few chapters later that we catch a glimpse of God’s mercy.
When faced with the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham argues with God. Abraham says, “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” (Genesis 18:23).
Abraham will ask the same question for 50, 40, 30, 20, and 10 people. And each time God replies, “For the sake of ten [50, 40, 45, 30, 20, 10], I will not destroy it” (Genesis 18: 23 - 33).
Unfortunately, for Sodom and Gomorrah, there were not even ten and God destroys the city. However, no one can say that Abraham did not try.
Noah didn’t try. He gathered up his family and stayed protected on the boat.
I have just been thinking about those two biblical characters and the narrative that has shaped their lives and how we read the stories.
Dave and Jen Cox have a vision to see God transform Romania into a gateway of joy through which believers are sent with the Gospel of Jesus Christ to “least-reached” and the “least-loved” peoples in the city and around the world.
If you would like to financially support Dave and Jen Cox or learn more about their ministry, please email Misty Leach at mleach@gfumc.com.
Photo of the Week (photos taken by me)
Opportunity to make a difference
Who do you know that constantly demonstrates the love of God? We want you to nominate that person and tell us a little about how they serve others and share the hope of Jesus in our community.
I appreciate your help! We’ve got a special celebration planned for those chosen to be honored, so nominate someone today!
Please email me your nominee today!
jprickett@gfumc.com
Around Gainesville, Georgia
Sunday, February 6 / 4pm / Sanctuary
The Orpheus Men’s Ensemble will be performing on Sunday, February 6 at 4 pm in the Gainesville First United Methodist Church sanctuary. Admission is free. The group is comprised of music educators and church music leaders around metro Atlanta.
Leadership Thoughts
If you are looking for an example of true sportsmanship, then look no further than the recent story between Olympic speed skaters Erin Jackson and Brittany Bowe.
It is an important lesson to remember who is on your team. Take a moment and reach out to them and let them know you have their backs. What kind of team player are you? Selfish or selfless?