I have been wondering lately about mentoring…As I reflect on the men this year who have completed the Men of Destiny ( MOD) recovery program, I am encouraged and thankful for the men in the community who are willing to mentor these men in their recovery processes. However, there is a constant need for more men to come forward and enter this ministry. Jesus said, “Go and make disciples”. Paul said, “Follow me, as I follow Christ”.
I remember just over ten years ago, I approached my pastor for some spiritual direction. One of his suggestions was that it was time to keep growing by giving back…”Go and find 10 or 12 men to lead”. My problem was… where do you find ‘followers’ and why would they want to follow me? What do I have to offer?
I tried to lead a small group…one guy signed up and one man offered to help me lead. It was a start, but it did not last. I did gain two friends.
A few years later, I began working at Kelowna’s Gospel Mission and discovered an endless number of men needing friendship…a listening ear and sometimes spiritual guidance with the issues of life…one guarantee for us all… “In this life you will have troubles” and “it is not good for a man to walk alone”.
It feels so encouraging when somebody really listens to me and looks interested in my life…hmmm…”with the same comfort you have received, comfort others”…I can do that, I wonder if there are others? I wonder if you can? I wonder if you know somebody who can?
God bless all of you who are involved in making our community a healthier place by being involved in some form of mentoring…leading people into wholeness.
James Beamish, MOD Program Director