Marks of a Worthy Mission: Part 3, Building Relationships
We’ve now come to the center of our 5-part series: Part 3, Building Relationships. But this isn’t simply half court or the 50 yard line, rather it is the very heart of our mission. Everything thus far leads to this point and everything to follow will draw from this point. This is our pulse. This is our purpose. Every huddle, every sports camp, every conference, fundraiser or building campaign would become a destructive distraction if separated from this aim. We exist to build meaningful and lasting relationships to the glory of God. Our hearts echo the apostle’s,
“We cared so much for you that we were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us.” (1 Thessalonians 2:8 HCSB)
I have a friend who notes the difference between a decision-centric ministry and a disciple-centric ministry. The first fosters the angst of a salesman who seeks to close a deal. Flush with clever marketing and emotional opportunity, an environment is created, a relationship is leveraged, and a decision is solicited. Assuming a positive outcome, that decision-maker is then trained to leverage more decisions. Conversely, a disciple-centric ministry invites others to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus. This same invitation is extended to believers and unbelievers alike. It is gentle, pa:ent and seeks conscious, costly commitment to a life under the Lordship of Jesus. Discipleship is not seen as a post-conversion training program, but the varied process of increasing intimacy with the One who calls us all to abide in Him (John 15). The disciple-centric ministry seeks to build relationships without a thought of leveraging them.
If we are to truly be a disciple-centric ministry then we must be en:rely about relationships. We cannot be a people who simply share the gospel and then move on with life. We must be a people who yearn for deep relationships with others and rejoice in their deepening relationships with Jesus. This cannot be manufactured or manipulated. It is not conceived, but received. It is a journey that we’re invited into, not a trail we’re called to blaze. When building relationships, I’ve found three things that enable me to build deep and sincere relationships with others as Jesus did:
- By learning their love language. I apply the principles found in Gary Chapman’s The Five Love Languages by communicating my care and concern in the ways they recognize. I aim for fluency in their language of appreciation.
- By learning the power of presence. I open underestimate how distance can deteriorate a relationship. In our virtual and isolating world, I strive for in-person interactions whenever possible.
- By learning the significance of consistency. I cannot know everything about everyone and I’m not called to. But I do need to be consistent and available to respond when someone needs my help, support and prayers.
