Weekly Roundup: Sunday, January 12, 2024
Matthew 3 begins with this striking phrase: “In those days, John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea” (Matthew 3:1).
Let’s pause there for a moment. What comes to mind when you hear “those days”? For the people of Judea, those days were tough. They lived under the crushing weight of Roman rule. Their identity as God’s people felt like a distant memory, drowned out by political oppression and religious hypocrisy. God’s voice? Silent for years. And deep down, people were desperate for a reminder that they still mattered to God.
Then, out of nowhere, this man named John shows up in the wilderness. He’s not your typical preacher. He’s not polished or mainstream. No fancy robes or bestselling books. Nope—John’s wardrobe is camel’s hair, and his snacks? Grasshoppers dipped in honey. Not exactly what you’d expect. And his message? Equally surprising: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2).
Let’s be real: repentance isn’t a fun word. It’s not something we naturally want to do. But John’s message is clear: repentance isn’t about saying “sorry” and moving on. It’s about changing direction—turning away from the things that pull us from God and walking toward the life He’s calling us to live.
Now, here’s where it gets personal. If you live long enough, you start to believe the things people say about you. Maybe it’s subtle—a bad grade, getting left out of a group, or feeling like you never measure up. Over time, those small moments build up, and you begin to think, “I’m not good enough.”
We try to fill that void. Some of us become people-pleasers. Others try to prove their worth through achievements or by running after things that don’t really satisfy. And eventually, it catches up with us.
Maybe you’ve felt that way. Maybe you’re feeling it right now. Life has a way of leading us into a wilderness—a place where we feel lost, broken, or stuck. And that’s where John’s message hits home: “Repent, and bear fruit.”
Repentance isn’t just a one-time thing. It’s a daily turning back to God. 1 John 1:9 reminds us: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” That’s the good news—God’s forgiveness is always available.
I love the story of a little girl who clapped every time someone walked out of the confessional booth at church. Her mom apologized to the priest, saying, “I told her confession makes us friends with God again, and she just wanted to cheer for everyone.” Isn’t that beautiful? That’s what repentance and forgiveness do—they restore us to a joyful relationship with God.
And baptism? It’s a powerful reminder of who we are. When Jesus was baptized, He heard these words: “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). I don’t believe those words were just for Jesus. I believe they’re for you too. When you’re baptized, God claims you as His own: “This is my beloved child.”
So let me ask you: Where do you feel the wilderness pressing in? What’s weighing you down? What’s pulling you away from the life God wants for you?
Here’s how you can respond today:
Pray: Right now, wherever you are, ask God to forgive you and help you take the next step of faith.
Reflect on Your Baptism: If you’ve been baptized, remember that moment as God’s claim on your life.
Take Action: Maybe you’re ready to explore baptism or recommit your life to Christ. Reach out to us—we’d love to walk with you.
Remember this: God is speaking to you. His grace is bigger than your past, and He’s calling you to something new. Will you answer?
Pastor Jamey
(Click Here to Watch the Worship Service from Gainesville First United Methodist Church, Gainesville, Georgia)
Weekend Prayer
Gracious God, Help us to remember Your claim on our lives, to walk in the grace of our baptism, and to reflect Your love to the world around us. Keep us safe, and draw us closer to You in the week ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wisdom Nugget: Repentance isn’t just about apologizing—it’s about returning to God. It’s the choice to leave behind what pulls us away and step into the life He’s calling us to. Every day is a chance to choose God’s way.
A Question to Consider: John’s message reminds us to turn away from things that pull us from God. What things in your life might be distractions or obstacles to fully walking with Him? How can you begin to let them go?
Meme of the week
Dad Jokes
Why don’t New Year’s resolutions ever work? Because they go in one year and out the other!
What’s a snowman’s favorite New Year’s resolution? To avoid a meltdown!
Photo Taken By Me
Book I am reading this week (Will update next week)
Found Interesting on Social Media
Podcast Worth Listening to:
Articles that caught my eye (not much reading this week)
Happening at Gainesville First United Methodist Church, Gainesville, Georgia
2nd Sundays of the Month: January 12, February 9, March 9 / 4-6 pm in the Adult Lobby
The Labyrinth is not a maze. It has only one path with no tricks and no dead ends. It simply asks that we take one step after another and allow the rhythm of walking to quiet the mind, relax the body, and open the heart to be present to the presence of God with us on our journey.
Whether you're a seasoned labyrinth walker or simply curious about this contemplative practice, come experience walking meditation on our 7 circuit Chartres style indoor labyrinth.
Guidance will be available for newcomers. Please wear or bring socks!
Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes
May you find strength in God’s promises, Hope in God’s plans, And joy in the small, beautiful moments each day.
"The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide you’re not going to stay where you are." – J.P. Morgan
"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." – C.S. Lewis
