Being a Church Planter I have lots of coversations about reaching people. There are books on the subject, classes on it and methods you can use to reach the most people possible. But, the more I think about it I’m not sure I want to just reach people, I want to connect with them.

I think connecting with people is going beyond merely reaching them, it is stepping into relationship with them. I think the term “reaching people” gives the idea that people are coming to us and that its a one sided relationship where they are something of a commodity. But, connecting with people is a two way street, where we are both making effort and coming to the table.

I know this is just a change in terminology, but I think it illustrates a subtle but important difference in thinking. One of the key roles we play as followers of Jesus is a responsibility to genuinely connect with people for their own benefit rather than ours.

1. josh Says:
   January 12th, 2008 at 6:29 pm

   that last sentence is huge. and don’t underestimate the power of language. it’s a powerful thing, and a slight difference, no matter how subtle can make all the difference in the world. thanks for reframing it.