In my encounters this past week with AUMCers, the prevailing theme in conversations was the concept of a “sphere of influence.” Your sphere of influence may vary but it touches where we live, where we work and where we play. Those people closest to your sphere are where you have the most influence. Jesus showed his disciples the importance of being authentic, intentional and influential as role models for the early church.  We may not consider ourselves leaders in the mold of John, Peter or Luke. However, through the grace of God, He gives us Christian influence to lead those we encounter in our sphere of influence to a risen Christ.

Just this week at AUMC, I heard of the positive influence of someone in Sunday school class sharing the need for unity, not division, in challenging times for our own church. I heard a small group discussion on the importance of consistent Sunday church attendance as a way to model, for their young children, a faithful Christian family. A person shared the desire for leaving a legacy for his children and grandchildren, so that his family would always remember him as a Christian patriarch. I experienced mentors guiding youth and being the Christian presence that they can count on for their Confirmation faith journey. A grandfather told the story of his grandson sharing with a little friend then saying, “I’m just like my grandpa who shares with those at HAAM.” And finally, I listened to a pastor’s sermon guiding us to revisit Psalm 23 and to allow God to make us lie down in green pastures, so that we can better cope with stress. Psalm 23 will now be my “go-to” scripture for stressful times.

Don’t underestimate your sphere of influence. Others are watching and learning from you. Your actions and a few words are all it takes to point others toward Jesus.

How will you be more intentional and authentic this week within your sphere of influence?

Peace,

Kenny Shortsleeve, Lay Leader