The Care Factor

What is the most basic expectation of leading a small group?  Some would say it is providing a place for the group to meet.  Others would say it has more to do with crafting a riveting lesson with careful attention to interpreting and applying ancient biblical texts.  Still others imagine the key component of leading a groupis providing for each and every need that members in the group may have.  No wonder we have a leader crisis on our hands!

Perhaps the answer is much simpler.  My most basic expectation for anyone facilitating any type of group is that leaders should care for their people. 

10 GREAT WAYS TO CARE FOR YOUR GROUP MEMBERS

10. Pray for your group members each morning.
9. Meet a group member for coffee.
8. Invite the group over for dinner.
7. Send a note of encouragement.
6. Ask questions.
5. Celebrate with them, literally...birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
4. Notice when they're absent.
3. Make 'hello' and 'goodbye' the most important part of your interactions.
2. Call them out...challenge them in areas where they need to change.
1. Get them serving others.