Weekly Roundup: Sunday, March 16, 2025
When did you last tell someone, “Hey, if you want to know what following Jesus looks like, just watch me”?
Yeah… that’s intimidating, right?
And yet, Paul says to the Philippians, "Follow my example and pay attention to those who live according to the pattern we gave you."
At first, Paul’s words might sound slightly arrogant—like he’s saying, “Just copy me, I’ve got it all figured out.” But that’s not what he means. Earlier, he says, “Not that I’ve already obtained all this or have arrived at my goal, but I press on…”
Paul is not claiming to be perfect. He’s saying, “I’m following Jesus—so if you need a real-life example, watch what I do.”
It sounds like Proverbs 13:20: "Walk with the wise and become wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm."
Paul is basically saying: Whom you follow shapes who you become.
Pastor Jamey
(Click Here to Watch the Worship Service from Gainesville First United Methodist Church, Gainesville, Georgia)
Weekend Prayer
Lord, help me to walk in wisdom, integrity, and grace so that others may see Christ in me. Surround me with wise and faithful companions who spur me on in righteousness. Shape me into a disciple worth following, all for Your glory. Amen.
Wisdom Nugget: Whom you follow shapes who you become. Walk with the wise, and you’ll grow in wisdom.
A Question to Consider: If someone followed your daily habits, attitudes, and choices, would they be drawn closer to Jesus? Why or why not?
Meme of the week
Dad Jokes (In Honor of St. Patrick’s Day)
What does the leprechaun order at a coffee shop? Green Tea!
What’s Irish and stays out all night? Paddy O’Furniture!
Leadership Reflection:
If someone mirrored your actions, mindset, and habits, would they become a better version of themselves? Whether we realize it or not, people are paying attention. How we communicate, our choices, and how we handle challenges all influence those around us.
Great leaders understand this. When Paul told the Philippians to follow his example, he wasn’t claiming to be perfect—he was showing what it looks like to keep growing. That’s real leadership: not having all the answers but committing to continuous improvement.
Authentic leadership isn’t about having it all figured out; it’s about setting a standard of growth, resilience, and integrity. It’s about being willing to own our mistakes, learn from them, and keep moving forward. It also means surrounding ourselves with people who challenge and inspire us to be better.
So, here’s something to think about: Is your leadership inspiring growth in others? If not, what’s one step you can take today to lead with more purpose? Because leadership isn’t just about where you’re going—it’s about who’s growing because of you.
Photo Taken By Me
Book I am reading this week
Looking for God in Messy Places: A Book About Hope by Jake Owensby
Podcast Worth Listening to:
Articles that caught my eye
‘Come as You Are’ Is Not a Slogan for the Church
The Founders Were Afraid for the Country, Too
The Subtle Mindset Shift That Could Radically Change the Way You See the World
'Not dead but ... not OK.' As fentanyl kills fewer people, survivors need help
'Earn-a-bike' program gives San Diego's homeless their own ride after 100 miles
Found Interesting on Social Media
Happening at Gainesville First United Methodist Church, Gainesville, Georgia
We are partnering with the Junior League of Gainesville-Hall County for their annual Diaper Drive. We are collecting diapers and pull-ups from March 7th -21. This year our goal is to collect 65,000 diapers and pull-ups. During the drive we collect any size, any brand, new and opened boxes/bags of diapers and pull-ups.
This year we are in great need of diapers sizes 5, 6, and all training pants/pull-ups!
Drop off items in the box located in the Narthex and Children’s Lobby!
You're invited to join us on Thursday, March 20, as we serve lunch to our first responders!
We need volunteers to help pack meals, manage traffic, and distribute food. Additionally, we’re asking our church family to donate desserts to include in the to-go lunches.
Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes
Irish Blessing
May your days be filled with laughter,
Your heart be light and true.
May good friends walk beside you,
And love embrace all you do.
