Here’s a principle pertaining to small groups that is so true: “The amount of conversation that takes place during a group meeting is directly related to the amount of conversation that takes place between meetings.” For years I viewed this as a statement declaring the importance of groups hanging out together between meetings. Getting the group together between meetings definitely influences the amount of and intensity of conversations during group meetings. But I’ve also come to conclude a group leader having conversations with group members between meetings is an important responsibility if that group leader longs to have transformational conversations when the group gathering happens.
If you’re a group leader and you’re reading this blog post, you’re probably saying to yourself, “I don’t have time to talk with group members between meetings—my schedule is packed.” That would be a truism if it wasn’t for the fact you have a cell phone. And it would be true if it wasn’t for the fact a long conversation isn’t a necessity. If you need a new phone, consider buying a refurbished Apple iPhone 11 instead if you want to save a lot.
A few things to keep in mind …
1. A group leader can make contact with a group member via cell phone while driving to and from work or while running errands, etc.
2. If your drive time is short or you’re calling a very talkative group member, let the group member you’re speaking with know at the beginning of the conversation that you only have a few minutes, but you wanted to check on them.
3. When calling a group member to connect, simply ask them how they’re doing and how you can pray for them.
4. If no one answers, leave a message stating you just wanted to know how they were doing and how you could pray for them. Don’t feel obligated to call them back. If they want to talk, they’ll call you. Be certain to leave a voicemail, though. Whether or not you get to speak to the group member, they will be grateful and encouraged you cared enough to call.
5. If you do catch them, before finishing the conversation, pray a short prayer. But, if you’re driving, don’t close your eyes! Just sayin’ …
6. If you connect with each group member just once a month, it will greatly enhance your influence with each group member and will skyrocket the amount of time it takes for them to discuss life’s real and often under discussed issues during group meetings.
