Weekly Roundup: Friday, August 30, 2024

We fill our lives with distractions. Information comes at us faster and louder than ever before, and everyone is begging for our attention. 

How do we keep from letting distractions keep us from what is important? 

In the Bible, we have a story of Jesus visiting Martha’s home, where she lives with her sister, Mary. Martha is frustrated with her sister because she has chosen to sit at Jesus’ feet instead of helping her around the house. 

We can all identify with Martha. She is trying to respond well to her position as a host and provide a welcoming environment for her guests.

And yet, Martha’s busyness prevents her from being truly present with Jesus.

If we’re not careful, our distractions can create a divide between us and the people we care about.  

Where are you allowing distractions to divert you from what truly matters? Who or what needs your undivided attention right now?

Pastor Jamey


Weekend Prayer

Heavenly Father, Give us the wisdom to recognize when distractions pull us away from You and those we love. Grant us the peace and presence of mind to give our undivided attention to the things that truly matter. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.


Wisdom Nugget: Distractions are everywhere, pulling us away from what truly matters. Let’s choose to sit at the feet of what’s eternal today. #FocusOnWhatMatters

A Question to Consider: Who or what needs your undivided attention today?


Meme of the week


Dad Jokes

Why shouldn’t you tell secrets in a cornfield? There are too many ears all around!

Why did the rabbit go to the salon? It was having a bad hare day!


Photo Taken By Me

Fire Tower in North Carolina

Book I read this week

Think. Do. Say.: How to seize attention and build trust in a busy, busy world by Ron Tite


Found Interesting on Social Media

A post shared by @bobgoff


Podcast Worth Listening to:

https://embed.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-15-minutes-make-or-break-your-day/id1610198312?i=1000633956647


Articles that caught my eye:

Why 7-Eleven plays classical music outside its stores

How to watch this new docuseries about Lake Lanier

I Smuggled My Laptop Past the Taliban So I Could Write This Story

10 Back-To-School Traditions You’ll Only Find In The South


Something to Do in North Georgia

Visit Jaemor Farms


Make a Difference

Click Here For More Info


Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes

May you find the strength to set aside busyness and be fully present with those you love. May your heart be aligned with God’s eternal purposes, and may you find peace and fulfillment in His presence.

Weekly Roundup: Friday, August 16, 2024

My wife had a co-worker who believed that the acronym LOL stood for “Lots of Love.” For those who don’t text shorthand, LOL means “laugh out loud.” So, thinking the letters said, “Lots of love,” she sent it to anyone who texted her with tragic or bad news. When our family dog died, she sent a “LOL” text, and to be honest, her mix-up did cause us to laugh while we were grieving. 

Embracing laughter in the middle of our grief didn’t make the pain disappear, but it reminded us that life is complex. Letting the light of laughter shine through the darkest of times, bringing us closer to healing, one smile at a time. 

So, how are you making someone smile today? The bible says there is a time to weep and a time to laugh; sometimes, mixing those does bring healing.

Jamey


Weekly Prayer

Teach us, Gracious God, to cherish the balance between weeping and laughing, understanding that both are Your gifts. May we remember that there is the potential for joy in every tear and the seed of laughter in every sorrow. Guide us to be mindful of how we can bring a smile to someone’s face today, reflecting Your light in a world that often feels heavy. Let our lives be a testament to the truth that there is always a reason to smile and hope with You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.


Wisdom Nugget: Even in sorrow, there is always something to be grateful for. Seek out those moments of joy and let them be a source of strength.

A Question to Consider: How can I help others find moments of joy or laughter during challenging times?


Meme of the week


Dad Jokes

What is a snake’s favorite subject in school? Hisssss-tory!

What did the calculator say to the worried student? Don’t worry, you can always count on me!


Photo Taken By Me

The photo is of a school in the mountains of Honduras. Are you interested in visiting or helping build a school there? Please send me an email. We will be going back soon.

Book I read this week

Build the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier byArthur C. Brooks & Oprah Winfrey


Found Interesting on Social Media

cbssundaymorning

A post shared by @cbssundaymorning


Podcast Worth Listening to:

Simon Sinek: https://embed.podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-bit-of-optimism/id1515385282?i=1000657764893


Articles that caught my eye:

A study finds that dogs can smell your stress — and make decisions accordingly

Why Facts Don’t Change Our Minds

Why Olympian Stephen Nedoroscik Doesn’t Need His Glasses for Head-Spinning Pommel Horse Routine

How the Fridge Changed Flavor


Something to Do in North Georgia

Click Here for More Info


Make a Difference

Georgia Mountain Food Bank


Weekly Blessing and/or Quotes

May you always remember that life is a beautiful blend of joy and sorrow, and may you have the wisdom to embrace both with an open heart.

“The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.” — E.E. Cummings.