Every Sunday, you see her sitting in the same place. She arrives at the service before you do and is already seated by the time you arrive. Her elderly, gentle voice does not carry across the aisle, so you must lean and concentrate to hear how she is doing. You have not spoken to her in a long time, but she is here, so she is doing ok; after all, it is church – everyone does well at church.

Or do they? That elderly lady sitting in that pew may need a call, a hug, and even a prayer. She may also need to share the joys of her children and grandchildren with you; but will you get close to her and share those joys together?

Remember: “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” (1 Corinthians 12:26) 

Contrary to popular belief, we are our brother’s (and sister’s) keeper. The Bible speaks of the encouragement we should provide to one another. (Romans 15.1; Galatians 6.1; Hebrews 3.13) Our encouragement for each other is something this world does not understand, because this world does not understand Jesus. We find our joy and unity in the Savior sent by the Father. Our church family needs us just as much as we need them.

Instead of watching people from a distance, get to know them. Below are Five Steps to Get Closer to Your Christian Family. Try each one for three months and see if they work for you. At the end of three months, see how well you know your Christian family.

• One Person a Week – Pray for one person a week from your congregation, then send them a card from their “Secret Christian.” Small cards shine enormous lights in everyone’s life.
• Food Works – Talk to your spouse and plan to invite one family or person from the congregation for dinner at your house each month. Restaurants are fun, easy, and loud! Get to know one another in your home instead of a place.
• Get a Hobby or Loan a Hobby – Find a common interest with someone in the congregation and take part in it together. My greatest “church visits” have been fishing in a boat or working on a project. Also, instead of always using your hobby, learn theirs. This means you will have to ask; but what better way to learn and get to know someone?
• Watch Their Children – I know, I know…I am a baffling one, but baffling works! How many couples never get a date night because they are worried about the kids and a babysitter? Be their babysitter and expect nothing in return…just do it as a spiritual family member.
• Drop, Knock and Run – Buy a gift for a member of the congregation, drop it on their front porch, pound on the door and run like crazy. It is outstanding to listen to members talk about the “weird gift” they received, and they may never know who it is. (by the way, do not leave food…it will not get eaten)

Just some thoughts,