Jamey's Newsletter: Sunday, July 2, 2023
True freedom is often misunderstood as the absence of any restraints or limitations. However, freedom is not solely about being unconstrained but rather about discovering the boundaries within which one can thrive and grow.
The late Rev. Tim Keller wrote, "Modern people like to see freedom as the complete absence of any constraints. But think of a fish. Because a fish absorbs oxygen from water, not air, it is free only if it is restricted to water. If a fish is 'freed' from the river and put on the grass to explore, its freedom to move and soon even to live is destroyed. The fish is not more free, but less free, if it cannot honor the reality of its nature" (Every Good Endeavor, pp 38-39).
If we are to honor the nature of what it means to be truly human and discover a life of genuine freedom, we need to live with healthy boundaries.
Here are a few things we need to live this life of freedom:
Focus and clarity. Clarity allows us to make informed decisions and take purposeful actions, leading to a sense of freedom from indecisiveness and aimlessness.
Personal Growth. People are encouraged to explore innovative solutions and develop new skills by defining limitations.
Creativity and Innovation. Contrary to popular belief, creativity thrives within boundaries. When faced with limitations, individuals are encouraged to think outside the box and find innovative solutions within the defined constraints. These restraints act as a framework that encourages creativity, allowing individuals to express themselves and explore new possibilities.
Responsibility and Accountability. When individuals recognize the boundaries they operate within, they become more conscious of the consequences of their actions. This awareness encourages them to make choices that align with their values and long-term goals, resulting in greater freedom and fulfillment.
Well-being and Balance. Individuals can avoid burnout and foster positive well-being by establishing boundaries around their time, energy, and relationships. The freedom to prioritize self-care, relationships, and leisure activities contributes to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Faith and Spirituality. Faith and spirituality can provide individuals with a source of comfort, hope, and resilience during difficult times. Belief in God, spiritual practices, and a sense of interconnectedness can offer meaning and a renewed sense of purpose, even in adversity. This ability to find strength and hope in challenging circumstances can enhance one's freedom by reducing the impact of external circumstances on one's inner well-being.
By creating and living by these boundaries, we can have personal and collective freedom that empowers us to live a life of purpose and meaning.
Jamey
Let’s Talk About Freedom - Part Two
(Together, What If is a conversation between Michelle Alexander, Ginnie Highsmith, and Jamey Prickett from Gainesville First UMC, Gainesville, Georgia)
Click Here to subscribe to our Youtube channel.
Scripture References: Galatians 5:1, John 8:32, 2 Corinthians 3:17, 1 Peter 2:16
The vision: Together, what if we strived to express our freedom in such a way that considered the well-being of all people and takes seriously the love of my neighbor?
Meme of the Week
Dad Jokes
What do you call a detective electrician? Sherlock Ohms!
What happens to an illegally parked frog? It gets toad!
(Thanks to Phil Shockey for the jokes this week)
Wisdom Nugget: If you repeated what you did today 365 more times, would you be where you want to be next year?
A Question to Consider (conversation starters): What is your ideal day?
Photo Taken By Me
Articles worth reading, videos worth watching, and/or podcasts worth listening to
(I will be back sharing links next week……been spending most of my time outdoors the past two weeks)
Leadership Lesson
If you want momentum, you have to create it yourself.
We generate and maintain momentum by setting goals and breaking our goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Momentum is sustained by small wins.
But the key to momentum is consistent action. Commit to taking regular, consistent action towards your goals, even if it's just a small step each day. This consistent effort builds momentum over time and helps you develop a habit of progress.
Following a sports analogy, there is no reason to worry about the clock if you commit to playing all the way through the whistle.
What’s Cookin’?
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
A lot can come of a few extra meals. For our foster families, having a prepared meal delivered means less stress and more focus on a child in need.
On Thursday, July 27, the Foster Care Ministry at Gainesville First is hosting a Back-to-School Bash for Hall County foster families. Along with providing back-to-school supplies, we would like to offer frozen casseroles for families in the area.
What if you got your children and grandchildren, borrowed neighbor children, and put together casseroles while explaining who they are for and offering a prayer for foster children in our community?
Get family and friends together and host a casserole-making party!
Here is what we are asking:
1. Bring a ready-made casserole to be put in the church freezer
2. Pray for foster children and families in our community.
Email Misty Leach at mleach@gfumc.com to let her know you are doing a casserole and if you have any questions.
Happening at Gainesville First United Methodist Church
Friday, July 28 / 7-9:30pm / Church Courtyard
Journey through the wardrobe to the magical land of Narnia at the church-wide Chronicles of Narnia Movie Night on Friday, July 28th. Doors open at 6:30pm. Movie starts at 7pm. Bring something to sit on and something to munch on. Dessert from Midland Ice Cream Social will be provided. Please park in the MAC parking lot. RSVP encouraged but not required!
Things to Do in North Georgia
Tuesday, Jul 4, 2023
Laurel Park
Click Here for more info
Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes
All human nature vigorously resists grace because grace changes us and the change is painful. - Flannery O’Connor
Beginning on July 16th, I am doing a message series at Gainesville First United Methodist Church, where we will be exploring how the writings of Wendell Berry, C.S. Lewis, and Flannery O’Connor intersect with scripture. The stories they write introduce us to worlds influenced by the gospel. In the sharing of their stories, we discover how our own imagination is shaped by the gospel.
I would love to have your feedback. Do you have a meme, dad joke, question to ponder, or wisdom nugget worth sharing? Have you come across an interesting article, podcast, or video that you found meaningful? Is there a quote or blessing that you are currently holding onto? If so, please share it. Let’s make this a community space where we connect with one another.
If you find encouragement in this newsletter, I would love for you to take the opportunity to share it with others. Thank you for reading.