Better than that…imagine an NFL stadium filled with hope.
Last Friday, everyone in US Bank Stadium was dedicated to hope. While our event didn’t quite pack the place with people, A NIGHT FOR HOPE filled the venue with stories of encouragement and hope.
Doug Kaufman and HOPE360 brought storytellers from around the country to network, share our stories, and expand our reach. The big idea is to share hope with hurting people.
I love Doug’s simple idea. He puts stories of hope, in video form, on the HOPE360 site. If someone, anywhere in the world, is impacted by a video, they can contact the storyteller directly and begin a conversation.
The stories have already touched hundreds of folks around the globe. A website can’t replace personal interaction, but for someone who’s struggling, scared, and lonely, it’s a great first step.
I’m honored to be included as a HOPE360 storyteller, but you don’t need a website or a video to make a difference. You and I encounter opportunities to help people in our everyday lives simply by sharing our stories.
When we share our story we give others the chance to say, “Really? You too? I thought I was the only one!”
God uses that sort of connection to open the door to hope.
# # #
Do you stay connected to your family?
Sadly, I don’t. Our trip to Minnesota provided opportunities to visit aunts, uncles, and cousins I haven’t seen in far too many years. I also met some members of members of my extended family for the first time. The time was brief and a bit bittersweet.
You don’t make up for lost years on a short visit. You don’t get to know folks or become part of the family in a couple of hours. You don’t get connected to family…you stay connected, and that takes sustained effort. Connection is a long-term deal. Like all things Jesus valued, there aren’t any short cuts.
I don’t want to beat myself up or live with regrets. I write this as a reminder to you and me that family and friends and connection are precious.
Let’s encourage each other to value and nurture those relationships.
