No, Can’t be done. It’s so difficult. The two concepts are at two ends of the spectrum: Deeply and loosely. If the love is deep, it can’t be loosely held. If the connection is loosely held, the love can’t be deep.
In the story of the prodigal son, the father allowed his son to leave the home without much conflict (Luke 15:11-32). in spite of the fact that this son dishonored the father and his entire family, he was allowed to leave the home with the inheritance. The father could have rightfully and legally blocked this entire effort, but he didn’t.
Yet there is no doubt that the father loved his son deeply. When he returned from his time away, he was welcomed with open arms and without any reservations. He loved his son deeply but his grip on him wasn’t too tight. It was loose enough to allow him freedom to explore, fall, fail, and to return.
Yes. It can be done. We can love deeply and hold loosely.
–     – –
Click here for more resources.

These are people who return the work unfinished with some excuses. “Too complicated.” “Don’t know how to do this.” “Nobody’s interested.”
I gave it to you because I’m confident you can finish it. You have the skills, stamina, and the relational equity to be able to successfully bring it to completion.
So what’s the problem? Fear? Fear of failure, opposition, ridicule or the negative response of others? Or, is it just plain insecurity?
Take the task you’re given and clarify all the details first. Then plunge into it with full force. Come back to me anytime with questions or request for help. then go back and get it done before time.
Whatever you do, don’t push it back to me. I’m not interested in Volleyball.
–     – –
Click here for more resources.

“What if they make mistakes?” This is one of the greatest fears of those who attempt to empower others. If you empower without holding people accountable, then you have reason to fear failure.
Accountability can come in various forms. It can be done more effectively by creating a culture of accountability. Though a weekly review meeting, every assignment and expectation can be reviewed in a non-threatening manner as part of a group. (For some this can be threatening, but it can be made easier by the group).
The more formal means would be through a planned quarterly or annual review done by the primary leader. Possibly a combination of the two methods would be ideal.
Without accountability, fear rules. But clear consistent, and affirming accountability is key to empowering others.
–     – –
Click here for more resources.

So we make no distinction between age, gender, race, financial status, etc. yes everyone gets to play. We do our best to remove barriers and limitations. We allow everyone to be involved and do the works of the kingdom.
Now what about a sinful lifestyle? God forgives sins and we must forgive. But what about persistent unrepentant sin? We must persistently forgive and accept the sinner just as Jesus did.
But we see that Jesus made a clear distinction as to who are truly his disciples. He said that the only ones who make it into his kingdom are the ones who do the will of the father (Matt 7: 21). Then he also demanded that they take up their own cross (Matt 16:24). They must be willing to die for the cause of Christ. So we have obedience to the Father with a life and death commitment.
How about saying that every disciple gets to play?
–     – –
Click here for more resources.

A teachable moment opens the mind and heart. Their need, pain, or their wants cause an openness that otherwise would not be there. Once they are open, they are receptive, and willing to change.
People also experience teachable seasons. These are broader periods of time that may last from months to years. These larger periods are also caused by needs, but of greater magnitude than the needs which cause a teachable moment.
Don’t be in a hurry. Wait for a teachable moment. It’s even better if it’s a teachable season. Till then, stay connected and be generous.
–     – –
Click here for more resources.