One of the truly rewarding things in life is to invest in meaningful relationships. When people speak of our “tribes” we are talking about those with whom we find and keep connection. We were not meant to live and build alone. Even though relationships have risk and rewards, for most people they are preferable to existing isolated or alone.
Jesus’ 12 disciples were surrounded by others who formed His community. Mary and Martha and Lazarus, Jesus’ Mom, and Peter, James, and John and a few others were at the center of this relational discipleship network. It included His Father as well. This extended to another 70 and then 120, and then, to wherever Jesus chose to extend Himself to building bridges of connection. The idea of living in partnerships is well-defined by Solomon: “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up. Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
How do we participate in building our own God-honoring, Kingdom tribe?
√ First we must believe it is worth the effort.
√ We also must fully face the risks of giving ourselves to others.
√ Next, we must begin with those who are near and build out.
√ When we find like-minded partners to do this with the building can be fulfilling.
√ In all of this, we must recognize the power and intentions of the ultimate Builder
There is much that Jesus and the God Story reveal about the ups and downs of engaging these kinds of connective relationships. Consider who you have been given the most access to. Family members. Children. Grandchildren. While these relationships modify with time, we can ALWAYS choose to do good and share with those close to home. At a minimum, we should have a list of each family member and what we are praying for them. It is not only about “witnessing” to those we love. It is about being salt and light. Consider:
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.” (Matthew 5:13)
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:15-16)
This is how it begins. Salt and Light. Whether it is the flavor contrast or preserving aspects of salt, we are told we are the salt of the earth. What am I doing to bring the contrast of truth and love to those in my family tribe? And what are my “good works” of shining light that are being displayed through me? Once we identify and build-in pursuit of being salt and light within our family tribes, we begin to investigate the Kingdom tribe opportunities around us. Neighborhood. School. Work. Common interests. All these areas are filled with souls – thousands of them. The key is to be guided and blessed by Jesus as we build more tribal relationships. This often will be reflected through our gifting, interests, and how available we make ourselves to cultivating doing good and sharing.
From these may also result in relationships with people who are like-minded, as well as those we are able to encourage in the power of the Spirit (do good and share). Take a sheet of paper or make a note on your phone. List level one: who is in my family tribe? Then: Who is in my influence tribe? Whom have I identified as like-minded in seeking out the good of others? Finally, (short list) who has God confirmed for me to build bridges with? When we are God-directable relationally, you will be surprised at how involved God is when providing direction, effectiveness, and satisfaction.
“Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:15,16
And so it goes,
Dave and Burnadette
Related:
The Power of Two
Song: Love Kiss