Small Group World

03.19.10

Coming Home... Seven Actions That Will Drive Me to My Small Group

I’m back in what I call my home state, Kentucky. In fact, I’m seated in one of my favorite restaurants, Gold Star Chili. I love coming to, even passing through Kentucky. While I feel affection for the things of Kentucky, the real reason I love Kentucky is because, every time I find myself in the Blue Grass State I recall long-term friends and the reasons they are my friends, the reasons I love to be with them.

We long to be come back to places where we have real, deep, substantial friends and communities where friendship exists.

There are a few necessities, relational expectations that some people in Kentucky have done for me. If you will do them for your group members their hearts will drive them to your meeting, even more importantly into doing real life with you and the rest of your group.

Accept Me. Accept me just as I am no matter what mood I’m in, no matter what hurt I’m responding to, no matter what attitude accompanies this era of my life.

Elevate Me. When I am feeling poorly about myself remind me that I am high on your relationship list by inviting me to do lunch with you, telling me what special gifts and abilities I have, welcoming me into your home at a time other than the meeting time, telling me more about your story, etc…

Push Me. Don’t allow me to remain as I am. Graciously and wisely move me out of my comfort zone in to experiences and opportunities that will grow me. Then celebrate with me when I have done so.

Use Me. Find a role for me, equip me, empower me then use me in some meaningful way to make our group successful.

Listen to Me. When we talk, don’t lecture me, don’t feel an obligation to teach me or pray for me (although there are times when this is necessary). Just listen sometimes. I long to be heard as much as I long to learn from you.

Anticipate the Me I will Be. See me as the person I will become, not just the person I am. This will endear you to me and me to you.

Be with Me. Spend time with me at times other than meeting times. This tells me that I am more than another number turned in on the report you turn in to the church leadership. Socialize with me and I’ll know that we are friends, not just co-laborers.

A clean house, a smiling face, a well-prepared discussion, and great food may make for a great meeting. But if you meet the needs of the heart noted above group members will know they’re not just coming to the group meeting, rather they’ll understand that they’re coming home.