This past school year God helped me connect several dots of interest and what became of it was a monthly breakfast meeting for dads and their kids at our local elementary school. With the structure and suggestions of a national organization and the support of the school’s administration, I had the chance to create a space once a month where “the hearts of children could be won to their fathers, and the hearts of fathers won to their children.” (a loose translation of  Malachi 4:6)

At the meeting each month dads and their children would gather at the gym, grab a biscuit and something to drink, sit on a blanket and have breakfast and a brief discussion based on the theme of the day. About half-way into our time, we would break into groups of about 5 families and dads would introduce themselves, their child or children, and share some way their child made them proud. It was a very simple yet powerful time. Following that, I would give a brief illustration about our theme and we would give away some raffle items to the kids before hugs and on to school and work. It was a fast 45 minutes each month.

I really enjoyed the experience and I really believe that what happened during those moments made a difference. I am so convinced, that this year I am attempting to start a similar group at our middle school, while keeping the group going at our elementary school, even though we won’t have any kids of our own at the elementary school.

Doing something like this dads’ group is not easy. There is a huge cost of time and energy and money. And, like most things, it is difficult to know if it is worth it and you open yourself up to all kinds of criticism. But, when I have one of those moments when I know I have made a positive difference in someone else’s life, it fuels me to keep going.

Tonight after dinner, Sheri wanted us to take a family walk. We live in a large neighborhood with a park area that sits on a reservoir and provides a great place to see the sunset. So, we set out for the park. While there I bumped into a dad who had participated in our monthly breakfast meetings at the elementary school. After some small talk about the summer and our vacation experiences, he told me that the other day his daughter asked him if they could get up early the next morning, get out a blanket, and have there own dad’s breakfast like we had at school. I smiled and thanked him for telling me. Later I cried.

If you aren’t currently finding a way in your life to significantly invest in the people in your community, I want to encourage you to get started now! I know you are busy. I know that lots of people will criticize or not participate. I know that it may take a couple of misfires to find something that fits you and fits the situation. But please, do something now!

There is nothing like the feeling of experiencing that kind of surprising encouragement. There is nothing like having someone tell you a story of how you added something to their life. Don’t miss out on that experience!

If you don’t have any idea where to start, I am happy to help. E-mail me at jay@southedge.org and I will brainstorm with you until we find a place to start. You can do this!

One other challenge I want you to hear: If you have been blessed by the efforts of someone who has taken the time and risk to invest in you, please find a way to encourage them! Please tell them your story of how what they have done is making a difference! Please fuel those who maybe wondering if what they are doing, or have done, is worth it. They need to hear it! It made a difference in my heart tonight to read Walter’s most recent comment from the blog entry ”The Jacket” where he did just that for me!

When I go to Uganda next week, I will have another chance to make a significant difference in the lives of people. But, so will you, right here where you live! Do something! Don’t miss out! I am here to help! Let’s get started!