One of the greatest blessings of the past six years of Capstone has been the concept of relationships. We decided on Day One that this church would be about relationships and that we would build relationships in order to build the Kingdom. We’ve worked to be intentional relationship builders outside the church as well as inside the church.
When trials come into our lives, the value of relationships becomes even more evident. I’ve been thankful over the past few weeks for a few incredibly close friends that I am able to talk it all out with. I’m also thankful for the relationships that have been built in our church staff. They are such an amazing support to me.
And tonight I was reminded again of the value of relationships within the context of small group ministry. Yvonne and I have hosted a small group in our home for the past six years. Capstone actually began as a small group meeting in our home. The group has grown and changed over the years. We’ve birthed new groups out of ours, having to reluctantly “push” people out of the nest in order to start others. (Not always easy but very necessary.)
Through it all, we have enjoyed the relationships that have been built through the intimacy of sharing life together week after week. Tonight our group (which has relocated to Craig and Terri Hanson’s house) reminded me that they are our safety net as well. They said that while they recognize me, Yvonne and Claire as leaders in the church, they wanted us to know that we are also a part of their HOME group and will be loved and supported through whatever we are going through. That was such a HUGE blessing for me.
As a pastor, I am usually the one being the safety net for people as they walk through their trials. That’s not a problem for me because I actually love that part of the ministry. God has wired me that way. But when the times of difficulty come for people like me who are usually the supporters, it’s often hard to feel “safe” and allow others to carry our burdens.
Tonight, my group reminded me that they are here for us --- no questions asked --- and that they will love and support us through whatever. I knew that to be the case but to hear the words was a huge blessing to me.
Thank you, Lord, for real relationships. And thank you, my friends, for continuing to love and pray. You are the best.
