Giving and Receiving From Commuity

As Life Group leaders, much of our discussions revolve around giving rather than receiving, as they very well should.  Much of the teachings of Christ focus on a sacrificial aspect of loving and serving that we all need to emulate in our lives, whether we are leaders or not.  One of the most valuable gifts that a Life Group leader can possess is the ability to serve sacrificially and love unconditionally.  I can almost bet that all of you have this disposition toward those you lead.  If not, you wouldn't be doing what you're doing.  By the way, have I said, "thank you" lately for doing what you do?  Thank you!    

But we also need to face the reality that we're human beings as well, with emotional and spiritual ups and down like anyone else.  And it's in the down times that we all naturally long for the support and unconditional love of others.  Some of us have mentors that guide us through the tough times.  Some of us rely on the support of more seasoned Life Group leaders that have been down the rocky paths that we find ourselves stumbling upon.  Some of you talk to Robert or myself, and I'm sure Randy is always available to lend a pastoral shoulder to lean on from time to time.

A couple of weeks ago, I was having coffee with a small group leader from another church.  He's a good friend of mine and since I'm involved in Life Group ministry, we often compare notes.  Over a cup of coffee at Starbucks, he asked, "As a small group leader, is it OK for me to share struggles and ask for prayer?"  I must admit that I was somewhat surprised by this question.  But when he shared that his church forbids it's small group leaders from sharing anything personal, or even asking from prayer, it made complete sense.  He claimed that his pastor felt that showing any vulnerability made a leader appear weak, to which I responded, "Has your pastor ever read the New Testament?"  Read Matthew 26:36-46 and Mark 14:32-42, and ask yourself if Jesus was vulnerable before Peter, James and John.

As Life Group leaders, it's important for us to know when we should give and when we should receive.  The predominate focus needs to be those in our groups, but we can't allow ourselves to give without ever asking for anything in return.  The essence of community is a holistic concept that involves everyone; even the leader.  Don't allow yourself to fall into the prideful misconception that you're an indestructible hero that only needs to give and never receive.  There is nothing noble or sacrificial in being a closed book to your Life Group.  In fact, you will only drive yourself to burn out and be a less effective leader in the long run.  It is only when you care for your emotional, physical and spiritual needs that you can give and love sacrificially and unconditionally.

Art by: Jann @ Creative Torbay