love to see the fire ignite
April 24, 2008 | community, ministries
Over 70 small groups have launched in the last 30 days in my home church.
Our pastor thought it would be a great way to shut the “back door” of the church, losing people because they haven’t connected with friendships or they are struggling and don’t know how to share that with others in a big church setting.
We have groups for scrapbookers, quilters, hikers, fitness, Bible study, choir, fishing, married w/young children, married w/no children, parents of teens, seniors, etc. . . . and my group is for people who have a desire to write and/or speak.
My group is comprised of about 20 people, all women except for two men.
The first night I asked them to reach into their “life basket” and share five things that they felt they could write or speak about, and I learned a lot about my friends.
One beautiful young mom said this the first night, “Suzie, I’m not sure I have anything to offer.” As I heard her story and read a little of her writing, it’s apparent that she has a great deal to offer. She just doesn’t know how yet, but hopefully over the next few weeks she’ll discover how to share what she’s experienced with others.
I love to see the fire ignite. When someone realizes that they do have a gift, or a story. After class another younger member told me her story, one I’m not free to share, but I could see her insecurity.
It was a blashback 20 years ago to Suzie Eller, unsure, hopeful, in love with God, and yet unable to see what God can do in the life of an ordinary young woman.
I saw a flame in her eyes after the night ended, and I can’t wait to see what God will do with her story. Maybe she’ll let me share it here later this week. I hope so. I can’t wait for you to meet her.
Ignite the fire in someone’s life this week. Look around, encourage someone who is just beginning. Invite them to join you in the every day things, like fishing, cooking, playing cards, going to a movie, scrapbooking. . . connect, not because you have an agenda, but because this is how it works the best. Just being a friend.
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