Embrace the Journey

Robbie Colson-Ramsey, Contributing Writer

This is the season that we make resolutions, sign up for the gym again, search the house for

magazines, glue, and scissors to make our yearly vision boards, and run to Walmart or Target for the perfect planner and a journal. We watched and saved all the motivational clips on social

media because this is the year of becoming. The year will rise to the occasion and give ourselves a standing ovation because we have a sense of purpose and a commitment to personal and community growth.

Included in a year of becoming. We must embrace the journey of responsibility that comes with

being a first spouse in the context of our faith community. It can be meaningful and impactful.

You approach this role with a sense of purpose and a commitment to serving the greater good of the Kingdom. On the journey’s path, you must be well equipped for the smooth sunny days and storm-filled nights that create rough terrain. Here are keys that will help you become better

equipped:

1. Prioritize Prayer and Seek Spiritual Guidance: Praying regularly and seeing spiritual guidance is critical to your life’s journey. Connecting with God’s wisdom and people filled with wisdom can provide insight and strength in fulfilling your responsibilities. You must remember the power of prayer is so powerful in maintaining a peaceful life.

1. Lead by Example: Be compassionate, kind, and inclusivity in your interactions. Serving as a positive role model can inspire those around you. Stop being standoffish, be welcoming, create conversations, and learn something about the members so that you can always have something to talk to them about: recipes, grandchildren, work, school, and significant others; this creates fellowship and relationships with members. Members go hard for people they feel connected to.

1. Be a Supportive Presence: Be present and supportive of members of your church community. Actively engage in events, gatherings, and activities to foster a sense of unity. In simple words, show up for church and church events; if you don’t show up with a smile, why do you think the parishioner will support the church? Remember, you are the number one cheerleader of the church.

1. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment within the church. If people see you as cold and mean, people don’t want to be a part of a non-welcoming environment; be warm and always remember the joy of Jesus. When thinking about the church and the community, ask yourself if the church would move out of the community, would any miss it, if the answer is no, we are not creating an atmosphere where people want to be.

1. Be a Listening Ear: Create a space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. Actively listen and respond empathetically, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

As you navigate the journey ahead, continue to adapt and refine these keys based on the evolving needs of the congregation. Continue to stay connected to the word of God and have ongoing conversations with your spouse to ensure that you are both on the same accord to embrace the journey.