I called a friend who serves as children’s pastor for a Southern California church.
“Hey Steve,” I said, “it’s David.”
“I can’t believe this,” he responded. “For the past three days, you’ve been on my list of people to call.”
We talked only briefly about work. Then we took turns sharing stories about family and life. We agreed that we want to get together if an upcoming West Coast business trip materializes. For 30 minutes, we enjoyed a life-giving and heart-building conversation. Even though thousands of miles and several time zones separate us, I love Steve like a brother. And I treasure the times we catch up with one another.
That likely happens for you, too, when you talk with people you know well who work outside of your ministry. You don’t obsess about situations. You don’t complain. You don’t feel cautious about what you’re saying.
Instead, when you interact because of a friendship, you can relax and be real. You can cheer for each other. You can lift and be lifted. That’s what gives life.
“Encourage one another” says the Bible.
Have you done that lately? Have you contacted someone outside of your ministry just to say hello? Maybe you love him like a brother or her like a sister. Sharing that love, even through a brief phone call or quick e-mail, will give you both life. You’ll encourage one another, no doubt.
Ah, but you’re busy. So I want to help you.
This column, which typically would go on for many more humorous and insightful paragraphs (work with me), will end soon. Take the time you normally spend reading, laughing, and self-examining (c’mon, stay with me), and send someone a brief e-mail to let him/her know that he/she came to mind as you read this column. In fact, include a link to this column to help your friend understand how much he/she means to you. A phone call is strictly optional.
Here’s what will happen: you’ll build a heart. Yours will feel stronger too.
So just do it. Send that e-mail in the next 60 seconds. Encourage one another.
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David Staal, senior editor of Today’s Children’s Ministry, serves as the president of Kids Hope USA, a national non-profit organization that partners local churches with elementary schools to provide mentors for at-risk students. Prior to this assignment, David led Promiseland, the children’s ministry at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois. David is the author of Words Kids Need to Hear (2008) and lives in Grand Haven, Michigan, with his wife Becky, son Scott, and daughter Erin. Interested in David speaking at your event? Click here
©2010, David Staal
