Thanksgiving and Christmas often bring family gatherings that can be a real blessing but also a real challenge at times. As Christians, we're called to be ambassadors for Christ, even in those difficult situations. On a recent episode of the Go M.A.D. podcast, the conversation centered around what making a difference for Jesus in our families should look like. We pray these tips will be helpful for you. Catch the whole episode for even more ideas.
Here are 5 practical ways to Build Bridges and Make A Difference:
Prepare your heart beforehand. Pray for wisdom and a deep love for your family members. Ask God to help you see them through His eyes. Consider memorizing a relevant Scripture verse to meditate on, such as Colossians 4:6: "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
Look for opportunities to affirm and encourage. Find something positive you can genuinely compliment or appreciate about each person. This could be as simple as acknowledging their cooking skills, their thoughtfulness in bringing a dish, or a recent accomplishment. Be specific in your praise to show that you're paying attention and truly care.
Practice make-a-difference listening. Really hear what others are saying instead of just waiting for your turn to speak. Ask thoughtful follow-up questions. Show genuine interest in their lives, concerns, and perspectives. This demonstrates respect and can open doors for deeper conversations.
Respond with gentleness. When controversial topics arise, remember that Peter challenges us to answer with “gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). Seek to understand before being understood. If you disagree, express your thoughts calmly and respectfully. And remember, not every controversy needs to be settled during the holidays!
Be a safe person. Create a loving atmosphere where people feel comfortable opening up. Avoid gossip and keep confidences. If someone shares something personal, thank them for trusting you. Show empathy even if you don't fully agree with their choices or perspectives.
By intentionally building bridges, we open doors for deeper conversations and relationships. We may be the only Bible some family members ever read. Let's reflect Jesus in practical ways this holiday season.
Building bridges is a process that often takes time. Don't be discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Your consistent love and grace can make a lasting impact, even if it's not immediately apparent. As you navigate family dynamics, keep in mind the words of the apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:2-3: "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."
Go M.A.D. with your family this holiday season!