Turning a crisis around….

Last Tuesday my wife and I had dinner and a movie with some friends, Mike & Michelle, who are children’s ministry leaders in their church.  (We saw the screening of “Courageous” by Sherwood Pictures, the makers of “Fireproof.”  It is a must see, opening on September 30th,  http://courageousthemovie.com/.  More on that later.)  Michelle told a story that demonstrated how important it is that we handle crisis well.

Last Tuesday my wife and I had dinner and a movie with some friends, Mike & Michelle, who are children’s ministry leaders in their church.  (We saw the screening of “Courageous” by Sherwood Pictures, the makers of “Fireproof.”  It is a must see, opening on September 30th,  http://courageousthemovie.com/.  More on that later.)  Michelle told a story that demonstrated how important it is that we handle crisis well.

One Awana night, crisis happened!  One of the regular kids brought a friend from an unchurched home, who we’ll call Emily.  It was great.  Emily was having fun and enjoying herself.  Then, during game time Emily had a very severe seizure.  Michelle called her Mom, who she had never met, and told her what had happened.  She handed the phone to the paramedics who got permission to transport Emily to the hospital.  Emily recovered and hasn’t had a seizure since.    Emily’s mom didn’t intend for her to return to Awana after such a traumatic experience.  But the way Michelle reacted to the crisis made all the difference.

Now, before I tell you how Michelle reacted, lets be clear about one thing.  Michelle’s motivation was simply to love and care for a child that God had placed in her life.  Our motivation is important.  Preserving our ministry numbers is a lousy motivation.  Loving God and loving kids is an excellent one.

As Emily recovered, Michelle called her mom to check in, just to see how Emily was doing.  The kids in Awana all made cards to send Emily.  The outpouring of concern by the other kids touched Emily’s mom. They decided it would be a good idea for Emily to return to Awana for one night just to say thank you, and to let all the kids know she was OK.  As you might imagine, Emily returned to Awana and continues today.  

The way we respond to crisis matters, especially to unbelievers.  Here are a few key points that Michelle lived out for all of us to see:

1. Respond to crisis with a level head.
2. Respond to crisis with genuine concern and love for the child.
3. Follow up is crucial to maintaining and building relationship after a crisis.
4. Our motivation, especially in times of crisis, must be our love for God and for the kids we serve.

None of us want crisis, but lets be ready to respond as Jesus would.

Have a great day serving Him!