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Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Reflections of Investment

Tonight I had the privilege of heading downtown to Ben Wallace's Gym for the Richmond Pro Am league to watch some basketball. From local college players to NBA players. Good basketball and a lot of fun.

What was best about the night was the number of people that we (Steve Rowe, Alvin Allen, Brendan English) knew from using the Cool Spring Rec Center. From relationships with those in our adult basketball leagues, people who play during open gym hours, and players who we partner with for personal training time. My intentions were to go and enjoy watching some local talent of one or two players we knew. But what we saw was a reflection of individuals that the openness of the Rec Center has invested in. We saw the people who come to play basketball and who have gained our trust and allowed us to invest in them spiritually and physically. Tonight was a time in which we met them in their neighborhood and comfort zone.

Investing in people goes both ways. It's not just serving folks in your comfort zone or personal space. It involves going to the places where they hang out, attend events, and meet their friends.

I am thankful for the work of the Rec Ministry and open basketball for the community. And I am thankful for the smiles on the faces of those who are glad to see us in their communities and gatherings.

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