Moving from out-of-state to a new area was such a transition. In addition to a new job and new schools, we would have to find new friends. Family seemed so far away.
And, oh, that dreaded first Sunday at a new church. Thank God for that one person, Steve, who went out of his way to welcome us. He even invited us to his small group meeting that night, offering to share his babysitter to assist us with our child-care needs.
Over time, we became closer as a group. Most memorable were the opportunities to share and pray together over trials, setbacks and life stresses. We prayed about friends and family who didn't know Christ, supported each other when parents and grandparents passed away and celebrated when babies were born. All of this in addition to having times to just socialize with each other. As time passed, the group members moved on to form new groups, but not too far that they forgot about the "old" group. Most recently, they brought meals in and supported our family during a brief hospital stay.
Leadership Lesson: Am I open to demonstrate genuine care to those in my group, as well as bringing others into the community of my group?
