Have You Considered This God-Sized Opportunity?
What if crises and pain in our communities are really just God sized opportunities for us to easily influence others for Him?
When my brother was diagnosed with stage four cancer I searched for Christian books and resources to help him on his cancer journey. Books on the topic of healing from cancer posed no challenge. I located plenty; it’s a popular topic.
While I appreciate those books, fact is, many people actually die from the disease. In fact, in 2017 the National Cancer Institute reported that, “In 2018, an estimated 1,735,350 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the United States and 609,640 people will die from the disease.”
So, as David gradually succumbed to the disease ravaging his body, I searched for a Christian book about making peace with dying from cancer. I found almost nothing. Just one book which I did share with my brother.
Admittedly that was a few years ago and sufficient resources may now exist. I doubt it, though. Apparently, dying gracefully with cancer as a Christian is not – or was not - a popular topic.
Perhaps this is an opportunity to offer healing through Christian relationship and support to those afflicted and their families.
Others must surely search for the kind of resources I wanted. And while most hospices provide grief support groups, I wonder if we’re not missing an opportunity to serve those who are dying and their families.
That’s why I was excited when I came across Christian resource designed to help someone lead a Christ-centered cancer support group; a group to support struggling with the disease as well as their caregivers. Here’s the link:
Challenging Cancer from the American Association of Christian Counselors
No, I don’t suggest that you personally lead such a group. I assume you have lots on you plate already. But could it be an opportunity to empower someone in your church to express their ministry?
There may be someone sitting in your congregation right now who faces a cancer battle themselves or has a loved one who does. Might they be open to leading a group?
What if you let your congregation know there is a resource with everything laid out to lead a small group? What if the group included not only church members but others in your community? That could provide an opportunity for someone to use their gifts and to truly minister to those outside the church well.
Jesus went everywhere doing good for people.
(Acts 10:38 ERV)
My broader point isn’t about cancer though. I’m suggesting that emotionally intelligent leaders heighten their sensitivity to needs in their communities. They watch for opportunities to empower members to utilize their gifts and callings to meet those needs.
Rather than merely ask people to fill an existing role, be sensitive to unique opportunities and those God may be calling to meet them.