The Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has released a new advisory that highlights the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in the United States 1. The advisory calls for action to address this issue and lays out a framework for a National Strategy to Advance Social Connection 1. Even before the…

Engagement Opportunity Rhythm #8 by Josh Reeves 8. Do a food drive or coat drive in winter and get neighbors involved

by Stephen Blandino 4. GROWTH This passage concludes with an interesting statement. “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47b, NIV). This phrase fits the passage but seems to have a different flavor from the previous description of community. I don’t believe this is an accident. When you look…

#7 Engagement Opportunity Rhythms by Josh Reeves 7. Attend the parties invited to by neighbors.

by Stephen Blandino 3. FREQUENCY Acts 2:46-47a says, “Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people” (NIV, emphasis added). The early church didn’t let “options” get in their way. You…

#6 Engagement Opportunity Rhythms by Josh Reeves 6. Attend and participate in HOA (Neighborhood) functions

by Stephen Blandino 2. COMPASSION Acts 2 continues, “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need” (44-45, NIV). Over the years I’ve noticed that – right or wrong – people rarely experience compassion when they’re not engaged in community. Why? I…

#6 Engagement Opportunity Rhythms by Josh Reeves 6. Attend and participate in HOA (Neighborhood) functions

by Stephen Blandino 1. DEVOTION Acts 2:42-43 says, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles” (NIV). The early church was devoted to spiritual and relational vitality. Teaching, prayer, and miracles were signs of their spiritual…

#5 Engagement Opportunity Rhythms by Josh Reeves 5. Invite neighbors over for dinner.