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A Note from "The General"


Jay with Bob Oram, co-Founder of NCS Sarasota at Skillets Restaurant where the NCS brothers meet each Thursday at 7:30am.

A Brotherly Blessing Via Text

When you are open to it, you often find simple, seemingly small things that point you to Jesus….and this even happens at 7:00 am in the morning when you are out of town!


Recently, my wife, daughter and I had traveled to Sarasota, Florida for a soccer tournament my daughter was playing in. As I mentioned, it was early, and we were just getting in the rental car at our hotel so we could drive to the soccer fields. My eyes were on the clock and my head was mentally calculating the travel time we’d need to allow…when I received a text message. It was from Bob Oram, who heads up the NCS Sarasota Chapter. And it said:

“And being found in human form, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:8

Aside from the bible verse, Bob had added a short note that read: “Jay – I send out a Bible verse every morning and pray for each man as I send it.”


Bam! I was pointed to Jesus immediately through this small act of intercession.

Daily intercession for others is a greater work that is available to all who are seeking purpose in our lives. We may not think about it much, but in my own personal reflection, I’ve come to realize that we have been granted a precious gift through Jesus to pray for others. Bob was extending that gift to me…and others in his text list.


I found his gift to be an encouraging reminder that we are the beneficiaries of an amazing relational network focused on friendship through Jesus. Every brother is a part of this special network. I am confident that any NCS chapter across the country would welcome one of us to their meeting, and, like Bob in Sarasota, they would most likely go even further and make the time to meet for coffee or a meal. Bob’s text served as a reminder that we are united through the Holy Spirit and empowered by the same spirit to impact those around us.


Through his book The Power to Bless, author Alan Wright reminds us about the game-changing power of blessings in our lives. He teaches how an encouraging word or a thoughtful blessing shared with someone else can lead to real flourishing for them amidst the challenges of life.


As I often do when traveling, I made the effort to reach out to the NCS chapter in Sarasota while there. Bob responded, invited me to breakfast and shared a verse of scripture via text while praying for me. It felt good being connected in Sarasota and to realize that I am part of an extended family which will present itself one day with immeasurable joy. Brothers, you are part of this same relational network – and joy arises from a sustained effort of showing up and connecting with others!


As we enjoy the rest of the summer months and soon turn to the fall, text a brother, pray for others and invite a friend to our NCS gatherings. Be intentional about investing in relationships if you are not already doing so. It can make a difference, and it is the only true asset you can take with you.


Jay

1 comentário


George F. Crispi
George F. Crispi
19 de jul. de 2021

Great counsel. Focus daily on what matters in eternity.

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