707 Groups
A local ministry here called The Gathering Place started these “707 Groups” years ago. Originally called 707 because they start around 7:07 in the morning before school. It’s a way for middle and high school kids to be in small discipleship groups.
When my oldest son entered middle school I decided to step up and co-lead one of these groups. Little did I realize I’d have a dozen 6th grade boys. Do you have any idea how difficult it is to get even FIVE short minutes of serious talk with a dozen 6th grade boys in the morning?
Nevertheless, I love these guys. It’s a fun time (and sometimes pretty stressful!) during the school year. Just a couple of weeks ago I was so proud to attend the Honor’s Day program at Glynn Middle School. My son, Jon Michael, was part of the ceremony. I then discovered that ALL of the boys that attend GMS who are in our 707 group were also in the Honor’s Program.
The Family Ministry team at our church has a concept that we really believe in.
Widening the Circle
The concept is simple. How can we widen the circle of influence on ourselves, and our children? Who is a person(s) that we can trust to speak life, leadership, and principles to us? We all get to a point where we need to hear from someone else.
You’ve been there … your spouse tells you something for months and finally, a friend says the same thing and you finally hear it“. In our case, I want to reinforce what parents are already teaching their kids. Perhaps there may be a time when the kids have a deaf ear to Mom or Dad, but will hear it from me. This is part of widening the circle.
Think about your life. Have you widened your circle to include someone to influence and mentor you? How about with your kids? Are their Godly friends that you trust to play a role in shepherding your kids?
I hope you’ll take this concept to heart. It’s important!
Thoughts?
