Yesterday was a great family day. Jess and I took the kids for an 8 mile bike ride (we rode the bikes, they rode in the tow behind trailer), and then we went to the park. At the park it was amazing how many parents we connected with. We had great conversations with a mom that was there with her 18 month old daughter, a family with a 6 month old and 2 year old, and another family with a 2 year old son (he was wearing a Georgia Tech hat, so I instantly liked him).

Then when it was time to leave the park and go to dinner, we had the opportunity to share a meal with some of our new friends and their 2 year old son. It was great being able to connect with new people. We didn’t have any agenda, we just like meeting people and getting to know them. We got their contact info and I hope we can hang out with them again soon, it’s always great to meet new friends.

As we are getting ready to plant the church and we are in need of core team members and staff members it would be easy to start meeting people at the park only as a means to bring people into the church. That would be wrong, and I have to guard my heart to make sure that my intentions are pure. I want to hang out at the park with my family and connect with new people simply because I love people and want the best for them.

Yesterday we were able to give a pregnant mother some advice on what it’s like going from having one child to having two. We got to talk with and encourage several people, and we got to enjoy time with new friends.

As I think about the experience I’m reminded that this is what Jesus did. He connected with people. He shared a meal with all kinds of people, and took the time to speak into their lives. But He didn’t come with an agenda, simply with love and compassion.