The theme for April at Palm Beach Lakes is especially meaningful and practical. With our overall theme this year of “With God We Can,” we want to emphasize this month that “With God We Can…Grow Closer to Each Other.” There are hundreds of real ways that we can do that. Try these ten.
1. Invite brethren into your home. There are few things more personal than having folks inside your home. Do it once, and you’ll want to do it again.
2. Go to lunch with brethren on Sunday. Some folks will grab a bite after worship on Sunday mornings. Ask some folks if they want to go together (each paying for their own meal). You pick the place, so that you can control the cost.
3. Don’t rush in; don’t rush out. Be at every church service—get there early, stay late. Sit down and visit with your brethren. Stand around and talk. Be friendly.
4. Say an encouraging word. The world is beating us down. Church members can grow closer simply by offering a kind word, intended to build up and not tear down.
5. Send a handwritten note. Technology has its advantages, but tech messages can sometimes have an impersonal element to them. When you take time to hand-write a note, it has a personal touch and a special significance. The Appreciagrams this month are a great way to start.
6. Pick up the phone. The actual sound of someone’s voice expressing genuine concern and interest can mean so much. You don’t need a reason to call. Just call to see how they’re doing or let them know you’re thinking about them.
7. Go by and visit. Some people think that visiting is a “lost art,” but there are so many people who can be visited—shut-ins; widows; new moms; those recovering from surgery, grieving a recent death, in the hospital or rehab or nursing home, etc., etc.
8. Do a random act of kindness. Too often we wait or think we need a reason to do something nice. Don’t wait. You don’t need a special reason. You already have one—you’re family!
9. Study the Bible together. There is probably nothing that will draw you closer to your brethren than sitting at a table with an open Bible. It doesn’t have to be in-depth or even a long study. A few minutes reading some verses in Psalms or Proverbs would be a great start.
10. Don’t make excuses. Don’t blame others for not speaking to you or inviting you or reaching out to you. Take the initiative. Step out. You be the one to make a difference!
With God We Can…grow closer to each other!