Some of the best care in small groups is done in-between meetings. As leaders  and members, we are responsible to model, encourage and inspire care.

Paul brings a brilliant exhortation in Philippians 2:1-4.:‘1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.’

Some of the suggested activities might not be appropriate for all – but you could encourage others in your small group to serve in these ways:

• Casual visit – ‘dropping by to see how you are’
• Prearranged visit – ‘may I call to see you this afternoon’
• Phone call – ‘I’m just checking to se that you’re ok’
• Card – ‘Just to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers’
• Flowers – ‘these may express what I find difficult to say in my own words’
• Deliver a meal – ‘this may help relieve some of the presure’
• Sharing in a task – ‘Can you help me/can I help you?’
• Meeting for a meal/coffee – ‘let’s do lunch…’
• Social Together – ‘going to play some golf, concert, etc’
• Babysitting – ‘why don’t you both have some time together’
• Practical help – ‘how can I help?’