Currently I am a part of several spiritual families. Two of them are official spiritual families and the others are informal relational networks that make up the system of spiritual support and encouragement in my life.
As I think about my spiritual families what strikes me is how different each one of them are, yet how they are each full of strengths and importance. The leaders are different in each group, as well as the members of the group, the activities and personalities but each group has its own strengths and unique abilities that contributes to the overall strength of the group.
I am thinking about these things today because I have been privileged to visit and be in discussion with people of other small groups alot recently and it has been exciting for me to hear the many different perspectives and personalities that a small group can take on.
Recently Nandi Mayathula-Khoza, the portfolio head for community develpment in South Africa said, "We need to recognise that a diverse population is a strength and opportunity in itself as this diversity can be harnessed to enhance people's choices." For the small group setting this quote still stands true, the word 'choices' could even be exchanged for perspective, or perception of who God is. This diversity in small groups should certainly be encouraged, I feel that one of the most exciting things about Christianity is that even in the midst of diverse personalities and interest there is the common glue of Jesus Christ that holds us all together.
This unity in the midst of diversity is something that is to be celebrated! Remember to be thankful for the uniqueness of your spiritual family.