We have entered the final leg of the book of Acts and the last five weeks is themed “Turning the World Upside Down.” In many respects our world has been turned upside down. The pandemic has created many challenges and frustrations. Families are divided geographically, individuals are working from home (again), parents are fatigued, kids are bored, people are isolated, and couples have never spent so much time together (this can be positive and challenging).
With these tensions and challenges I am reminded of the importance of the 5:1 Principle. Through decades of research John Gottman, a world-renowned psychologist whose work with couples has led to ground-breaking research on marital stability and divorce prediction, has found that for every one negative interaction during conflict there should be 5 positives. This principle is an important one to remember during these stressful times and can be applied to all relationships. I am convinced that our world will be turned upside down if our positives vastly outnumber our negatives.
During these stressful times it is important that we also practice self-care. We need to be intentional to care for all aspects of our being. This includes sleep hygiene, eat properly, get exercise (a walk will suffice), as well as, care for our spiritual, emotional and social needs. We would also like to encourage you to stay connected and join our weekly online services, connect with us Wednesday nights for prayer, join a class or small group, or join a new class called “Faith in Trying Times: Fear, Waiting, Hope” starting this Sunday. If you are wanting additional support, please consider a Stephen’s Minister. Our Stephen’s Ministers are trained in pastoral care and would welcome the opportunity to come alongside you. For more information - https://www.unionchurchhk.org/connect/care/stephens-ministry.
“Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8
Blessings, Pastor Michele