Story #1 - Snapshots of Group Life OUT

Our churches need all kinds of groups--Christian communities, centered in God's Word, for people to belong to and learn of Jesus' love. I'm all for groups that meet on church campuses and in homes as there are many good reasons to do so. It's because of the following experiences why we also encourage groups out in the community. 

Take a look at these snapshots from last Friday's men's group meeting...

• Our group has been meeting weekly at a local coffeehouse for about 2 months. I thought it was a big plus that the barista who normally takes my order remembered "my usual." I haven't personally introduced myself to him yet (as he is usually very busy), but I plan to do so soon. I'm encouraged by seeing the beginning of relationship building with him.

• A group member and I continued hanging out together after the group meeting ended. This gave us the opportunity to meet one gentleman (we'll call him Steve) whom we have seen sitting at a nearby table every time our group has met. It was time to introduce ourselves and hear his story. We learned that while on medical leave, Steve spends time in the Word at our coffeehouse every day. He shared that he is going to miss this part of his life when he goes back to work. We invited Steve to sit in on our group meeting anytime. We also had a chance to share why we meet out and in the community to which he understood clearly and affirmed.

• Later another gentleman (we'll call him Tom) asked if he could sit at an open seat next to us. It was pretty easy striking up a conversation with him. We learned that he owned a disc jockey business primarily involved with weddings. He came to the coffeehouse that morning to read a book titled The Business of Gay Weddings. At the time, we didn't know if he was a believer or not, but regardless we discussed the great need for the church to show the love of Jesus to the gay community even while disagreeing biblically on matters. We learned that Tom is in fact a believer and attends a local church. As a business-owning believer, he is hoping to show the love of Jesus to all who request his company's services. I'm hoping to meet with him again to hear about what he is learning.

• During our conversation with Tom, I noticed Steve having, what looked like, a meaningful and ministering conversation with a woman at the coffee bar. You could tell from his posture that he was listening and showing a Jesus-loving attitude. 

Taking in all of these experiences, I was moved, I began jotting down the above notes. I sense from the Spirit that our group is exactly where Jesus wants us to be, carrying His love, Word, and good news.

I'd love to hear your similar stories. Please share.