Friends in Ministry

Tonight, I was reminded once again of one of the by-products of serving in ministry. FRIENDSHIPS. I am in Indianapolis for the North American Christian Convention. Kathy and I had dinner with a young lady who was a part of my student ministry from 1984-1989. We had a wonderful dinner with her family, we reminisced about our ministry, caught up with each other families and talked about what our churches were currently doing.

When I returned to my hotel this evening, I could not help but to think my life is richer because all of the relationships I have developed in 29 years of ministry.

While there is a lot of talk about what we need to do to help the church grow we seldom talk about the need to develop deep relationships with one another as a means for church growth. This is sad, for relationships are the key for developing lasting disciples in the kingdom. Look at the ministry of Jesus it focused on relationships...

• Jesus and the 12
• Jesus and Peter
• Jesus and John
• Jesus and Lazarus, Mary and Martha
• Jesus and Zacchaeus
• Jesus and Nicodemus
• Jesus and the Samaritan Woman
• Jesus and Matthew

Get the picture, Jesus focused on relationships - I for one and glad I have followed the Jesus model when it comes to friends in ministry, for the relationships I have made over the last 29 years have truly deepened my commitment to ministry. I am a better person because of my relationships and I have a greater appreciation for what people have done for Christ through our relationships. What relationships do you have because of ministry? Maybe today you can reconnect with someone in ministry, the joy you receive will be priceless.

On a personal note; thanks for dinner Brad and Ginay the food was good but the time together was fantastic!