Deepening Relationships

The last few months have definitely been one of the most unique seasons in recent human history. A global pandemic has shuttered businesses, spread fear and upended our social interactions. In the US, we’ve also experienced race riots and election-related tensions. We will remember this period in our lives as one that drove many of us to our knees in prayer.

In spite of the chaos, many have reported that their families have experienced a closeness that they had not felt for a while. New bonds have emerged as families spend more time together. Cancelling activities and working from home strengthened family ties in many healthy families. These changes forced my own family to take a new look at priorities. We recently made intentional changes to better discover and flow with God’s rhythms and pace.

The first part of 1 John 4:18 says “There is no fear in love.” Fear has spread feverishly in recent weeks. Many media and cultural influences push toward division and conflict. As believers in the redemptive power of love, we are not afraid. We love instead of fear.

As I heard someone say recently, “Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions. The truth can handle it.” 

The truth is that God values every single human life. 

The value I recognize in every life is based on the image of God they bear. 

My word choice here is significant: This is not a value I “ascribe” to every life, it is a value that I “recognize” in every life. I don’t have the power to add or subtract to someone’s value. God ordained their value millennia ago. I simply honor their value.

One way this belief is displayed in our lives is by looking at our relationships. What are we doing personally to confirm our value for others? It is easy to rant on social media about a hot topic. If someone were to review our checkbooks or our calendars, what are we doing to show that we believe that everyone matters?

I am so grateful for the many supporters of Hope Haven Rwanda who choose to deepen relationships and deliver hope to our Rwandan community. Thank you!

When we are willing to dig deep into relationship (especially with people who are not like us), God will use our hearts, mouths and hands to help others experience renewed hope! And, as a bonus, God does a lot of work in our lives along the way because we all matter to Him.