Jamey's Newsletter: Sunday, October 30, 2022
It is hard to recognize that we may be the monster damaging our friendships. We may be the vampire sucking the life out of our most important relationships.
Jesus warns us that before we start poking at the faults in others, we need to pay attention to the damage we may be causing. Recognizing the life drain on relationships begins with admitting that I might be the vampire in this relationship.
A little self-examination goes a long way in building healthy friendships. Ask yourself, “What is it like to be on the other side of me?” How do other people see you? Are you loving? Or do you fail to show compassion? Are you a good listener? Or are you impatient?
Before we put others in their place, we must put ourselves in their place.
Jamey
Prayer of the week
God, when we stand at the edge of doubt and allow our questions to distance us from you and others, forgive us and free us. Where we are in error, direct us. Where we are in need, provide for us. Where we are divided, unite us. Lord, we need you. Amen.
All In: With All Your Strength
Mark 12: 28 - 34 2 Corinthians 4: 7 - 18
Pre-recorded online worship from Gainesville First UMC, Gainesville, Georgia
Vulnerable times are the times in our lives when we see the greatest growth.
“We are afflicted in every way but not crushed, perplexed but not driven to despair, persecuted but not forsaken, struck down but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:8)
In November, I will include notes of thanks from my readers in my newsletter. So who or what are you thankful for? And why?
Meme of the Week
Dad Jokes
What is a baby ghost's favorite game to play on Halloween? Peek-a-boo.
Knock, Knock! Who's there? Ghost says! Ghost says who? No, ghost says boo!
Photo of the Week (Photos taken by me)
Book I am Reading This Week
You're Not Listening by Kate Murphy
INTERESTING ARTICLES, PODCASTS, OR VIDEOS FROM THE WEEK
Podcast: ATG 95: Finite Schedules, Infinite Possibilities: The Time-Management Episode with Laura Vanderkam
Guitarist Billy Strings on crafting his own brand of bluegrass
Lincoln Saved American Democracy. We Can Too
Reformation Day: What, Why, and Resources for Worship
Making A Difference
Good News Clinics is a Christian nonprofit providing free medical and dental care to uninsured residents of Hall County who cannot afford to purchase health care services. Forty-six primary care physicians, 9 mid-level providers and 43 dentists volunteer to treat patients at GNC. In addition, over 340 specialist physicians volunteer to treat GNC patients through our Health Access referral program.
Happening at Gainesville First United Methodist Church
Surviving Holidays Grief Workshop
Are you or someone you know facing the holidays without someone you love? Through live presentations, panel discussion, video, song, and ritual, this workshop will help to prepare your heart and mind for navigating these days with family and friends. Families are encouraged to attend this educational event together. This event is free and open to the community. Information about grief support groups will be available following the workshop.
Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes
Writer, artist, and podcast host Debbie Millman on busyness:
"Busy is a decision. We do the things we want to do, period. If we say we are too busy, it is just shorthand for the thing being "not important enough" or "not a priority." Busy is not a badge. You don’t find the time to make things, you make the time to do things."