Redeemer East Side Update

Accountability. What a dry and uninspiring word. The ability to take account of something sounds as exciting as doing your taxes.

And yet if there’s one thing I could inject into the relationships across our church, it would be vulnerable, robust, hopeful accountability.

Most of us are familiar with the end of Galatians 5, when Paul outlines beautiful list of fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. But do you know where he turns his attention immediately afterwards? To the support system necessary for that fruit to grow:

"Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." — Galatians 6:1-2

We’ve heard that phrase "bear one another’s burdens" before. But how can you bear one another’s burdens if you don’t know what those burdens are? And what does that even look like? I’ll give you two places to start. The first is easy. The second is scary.

First, ask people in your life to share about more than their circumstances. Ask them to share what’s going on their heart, and share the same about your heart. Instead of "Guys, please pray for me, here’s what’s going on at work," say "Guys, please pray for me, because here is how my heart is responding to what’s going on at work."

Second, pursue one or two people that you can have regular (at least monthly) intentional accountability conversations with. This will be an awkward ask, like asking someone out on a date, and the first few conversations will be awkward, too. But God blesses those intentional relationships over the course of time more than you can imagine.

In 2009, I took a risk and initiated those relationships with two men in my Redeemer Community Group. Nine years later, we still have bi-weekly accountability relationships, and two years ago they both stood in my wedding. I would not be even half the man I am today if it weren’t for those two brothers pushing me, challenging me, asking me difficult questions, and — always — encouraging me.

My prayer for you today is that nine years from now, you will have a similar story to share. And if you are interested in helping cultivate that kind of community, volunteer to be a Beta Group leader or host by emailing [email protected].

Warmly,

Rev. Drew Sokol
Director of Community Groups and Evangelism

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