MEET(

Welcome to my Five Minute Friday blog hosted by Kate Motaung.  You can follow the details here:

http://katemotaung.com/five-minute-friday/

This week's word is MEET.

I am a self proclaimed introvert.  I don't like being in unfamiliar situations.  Meeting new people is very awkward for someone who doesn't know how to make small talk.  Being in new places, leaves me longing for the quiet retreat of my home.  Most likely you will find me around children.  That is where I feel at home... with small people.  I say all of this to say that I rarely put myself into situations where I "MEET" people.

Recently, I felt led to change community groups within our church.  Our community groups are called Grace Groups and they exist to help us build relationships with others in our church family and to invest in those relationships and "live life together."  I'd felt the prompt of change for several months but I finally prayed over it and "took the plunge".  It is a small group- 3 couples, 1 single female, and myself.  (And 8 kids ranging from 4-15 yrs old.)

The first night, we carpooled to the group.  Honestly, I can say that if they hadn't come to get us, I would have found a way to stay home.  Once we got there, I was too nervous to eat or drink.  I listened to the small talk and contributed very little.  Finally it was time for discussion from the service, I felt my body relax.  I participated in discussion, prayer requests and survived the car ride back home.

But it was at the end of the evening that a conversation came up.  I tried to explain to the women how difficult and almost painful it was for me to come to group.  I thanked them for being so caring and welcoming.  All three women were shocked at my proclamation that I was an introvert. "Melissa, you are an amazing woman.  I can't believe you feel that way.  Oh my goodness, we are so surprised that you are shy."  I thought, "Are they serious?"

I went home thanking God that my awkwardness is not as evident to others.  I realized this group had no idea what battles I was facing.  But even so, they welcomed me.  They made me feel at home.  My prayer is that I will be sensitive and welcoming to those around me and that I will have the courage to "MEET" new people.  Isn't that part of what we, as Christians, are called to do?  To love, accept and welcome others...

 (Side note:  I have been back to group 3 other times and each time we MEET I feel less anxious.)