When it comes to discipleship, one of the hardest things we often face is knowing who specifically we are supposed to be discipling. Is it one special person, or many?
When folks are forming discipleship relationships, and building healthy missional communities, on many occasions I’ve had people say to me,
“I’m not this huge gatherer and people person. I’m not naturally wired to be the life of the party.”
And I tell them not to worry. The more naturally gifted, Type A, super-outgoing folks in your community will put you into proximity with lots of people. Just be nice and look for the one that is leaning in to relationship with you; you know…that certain person that you easily click with. God will guide others to specific and unique fits in relationship with others in your community. [Click Here to get my Leading Your Family & Community on Mission eGuide to help you get started.]
Who’s your one?
In the parable of the Lost Sheep found in Luke 15:3-6, Jesus tells about a huge flock of 100 beloved sheep and the shepherd that goes out searching for the one sheep that slipped away. The shepherd loves all the sheep but is moved to search for one specific lost sheep.
Who’s that person in your life that is leaning in to relationship and faith? We all have them; they are friends, co-workers, neighbors or extended family members who just sort of…like us. They know we are Christians and they’re not freaked out by it. In fact, this person may even be a little curious about your faith. Who is that in your life right now?[clickToTweet tweet=”True communities living together on mission are started one relationship at a time.” quote=”True communities living together on mission are started one relationship at a time.”]
Your “one” is waiting for you…
Ask the Holy Spirit to point that person out to you right now. Chances are that you already know this person. Then ask the Spirit, “What next? What is the very next, small step that you want me to take with this person?” Then be obedient to what you heard and move slowly forward with another, “What’s next, Lord?”
Imagine if you and a few other Christian friends all identified just one or two people like this and began to intentionally reorganize and prioritize your life around these people of peace? And you made sure to include them in more and more of the rhythm of your collective lives?
That’s what I’m talking about! Soon a natural bond and affinity starts to form as you do more and more of normal life together. Remember, discipleship is the process of helping others move from unbelief to belief in every area of life. You won’t be able to do this effectively with lots of people…or all by yourself.
True communities living together on mission are started one relationship at a time. The next best time to drop those fears about trying to lasso a house full of people all at once is now. Relax. The pressure is off…who’s… your… one?
Question: What has worked best for you in identifying your “one”? Leave me your thoughts in the comments below, ok? And be sure to subscribe to my Youtube channel before you leave. 🙂
