Tuesday, January 7, 2026
Pastor’s Daily Post
Sullivan First UMC—J. Michael Smith
Today is National Bobblehead Day
My one and only bobblehead is of Sigmund Freud, given to me years ago by some relative as a way of making fun of my Psychology Degree.
I used to have a Kyle Farnsworth bobblehead. He was a long ago relief pitcher for the Chicago Cubs. The man was better at brawling than pitching. (Google him on YouTube) My high-school-aged daughter went with me to that game and developed a crush on Farnsworth. That summer she got a pass to Six Flags in St. Louis and wrote “Mrs. Kyle Farnsworth” on the line where you were supposed to write your name. Her Kyle Farnsworth bobblehead was her most precious possession.
Anyway, long story short—she eventually got married (not to Kyle Farnsworth), had a baby, the baby became a two-year-old, and the two-year-old found the bobblehead. By the time Alison discovered what was going on, Izzy had pulled Kyle’s head off. (Which was something many professional baseball players were never able to accomplish.) Alison was crushed. And so that Christmas, I was a good dad and wrapped up my Kyle Farnsworth Bobblehead and gave to her.
Now I only have a Sigmund Freud bobblehead. He has lived with me many years. I keep him in a closet. Where he will stay—lest he come to life and start reading something into all this I’ve just written.
News around the church
- I am finishing my third day of meeting people and getting to know stories, concerns, and personalities. It has been great. Tomorrow I will be meeting with people in the afternoon, but only have one opening left—3:30. If we weren’t able to get together this week, I plan to have at least one day a week, indefinitely, to continue these visits.
- My in town schedule next week will be Tuesday and Wednesday. Next Monday and Thursday I will be working remotely from Urbana, but am available by phone. Friday is usually my family day.
- Worship this Sunday: 9:30 (Friendship Hall) and 11 a.m. (Sanctuary.)
- As I write this, I’m listening to the Praise Team practice. I keep wanting to close the computer and go out and sing with them. But I must stay disciplined!
- Attendance this past Sunday: 73 at the combined worship. Offering: $17,166 for the General Fund.
- Next week I will be preparing my recommendations on new policies and staffing. I’ll let you know in tomorrow’s post about ways anyone from the congregation can have some input.
- Remember that you can contact me directly at 217-898-3148 or jms754@gmail.com
Repertoire 