Tonight, our church held a massive city-wide scavenger hunt for all the small groups. Each group dressed in some unique form or fashion to show spirit and/or unity. Then the hour-long hunt across town began. With dozens of items and tasks to do, groups had plenty to work on! The "to-do" list for the evening included collecting random items like clothing, toys, plants, rocks, etc. Some tasks required were to have a cup of coffee and conversation with a specific couple from church who just celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary, bring back a person from church not involved in small groups, play basketball with some of the neighborhood kids, etc.

Our group did pretty darn good, I must admit. We tackled nearly every item on the list with just under 2 minutes to spare! As we reminisced over the brief evening, the best memories and fondest moments occurred during the tasks in which the objectives forced us into relationship (if even for 5 minutes) with others.

While reflecting on the meaningful conversations, laughter, and strengthened relationships that came out of the evening, I was both rejuvenated and convicted. Rejuvenated by the reminder that true joy comes through relational ministry. Convicted that I so often, especially at work, get caught up in statistics and numbers and "items" that get in the way of true relationship with others. It is so easy to allow ourselves to place value on number of people or amount of money, rather than evaluating relationship. So it's times like tonight that allow me to see how I've gotten off-track, and then re-align myself!

If you think about it, through the Gospels you never come across Jesus preaching about numbers or percentages. True, He did speak to large multitudes, but you're more likely to read about His time in someone's home, or having dinner with low-life, or mentoring the disciples.

As we go about ministry, how refreshing it is to taste from the fruit of relationships sown and harvested!

Can you guess our small group's theme for the scavenger hunt?
I challenge you find a more spirited group of folks!