We all have unique opportunities & relationships along our path (see previous post). I know people you don't know. You know people I don't know. If we want to live a life of impact, we need to make initially relational connections. Not sure where to begin? Here's a few thoughts & ideas on how to make connections along your journey:
JOURNEY NETWORKS & GROUPS
Our groups and networks are all about rubbing shoulders with other people to begin the process. Get plugged in.
LET'S DO LUNCH
We all eat three meals a day. Why not make a habit of sharing one of those meals with someone who doesn't know God? Go to lunch with a co-worker, not by yourself. Invite the neighbors over for family dinner. If it’s too much work to cook a big dinner, just order pizza and put the focus on conversation. When you go out for a meal or have a cookout, invite someone to join you. Flee the Christian subculture.
BE A REGULAR
Instead of hopping all over the city for gas, groceries, haircuts, eating out, and coffee, go to the same places at the same times. Get to know the staff. Smile. Ask questions. Build relationships. Support local business. Be a regular.
HOBBY
Hunt? Creative Memories? Watch Football? Get out and do something you enjoy with others. Try city league sports. Share your hobby by teaching lessons, such as sewing, piano, knitting, or tennis lessons. Be prayerful. Be intentional. Have fun. Be yourself.
TALK TO YOUR CO-WORKERS
How hard is that? Take your breaks with intentionality. Go out with your team or task force after work. Be interested in your co-workers. Pick four and pray for them. Form moms’ groups in your neighborhood and don’t make them exclusively Christian. Schedule play dates with the neighbors’ kids. Work on mission.
VOLUNTEER IN THE COMMUNITY
Find a non-profit in your part of the city and take a Saturday a month to serve your city. Bring your neighbors, your friends, or your small group. Spend time as a church serving our community. Not sure what to do, check out networks. You can do it!
PARTICIPATE IN YOUR AREA
Instead of playing XBox, watching TV, or surfing the net, participate in city events. Go to fundraisers, festivals, cleanups, summer shows, and concerts. Participate missionally. Strike up conversation. Study the culture. Reflect on what you see and hear. Pray for your community. Love the city. Participate with the community.
BE A FRONT PORCH NEIGHBOR
Help a neighbor by weeding, mowing, shoveling snow. Stop by the neighborhood association or apartment office and ask if there is anything you can do to help improve things. Move the chairs from the back yard to the front porch. Walk around your neighbor - it's good for you & you might meet new friends. Host a cookout or block party. Be a neighbor and make a difference in the lives right around you.
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