I’m a strong believer in the power and effectiveness of casual conversation, so much so that I dedicated an entire chapter to it in my book, “Where’s the ‘Why’ in Youth Ministry?” called “Youth Ministry and Dental Assisting.” Casual conversation can be one of the greatest social tools as well as ministry aspects you have. Id like to share three situations that I’ve witnessed over the past two days that have really made this more evident to me.

Right now, I sit in a chair in the waiting area of my barbershop. As I sit here, I hear the most fascinating (I use that word loosely) conversations. It’s not necessarily that the subject matter is that enthralling, but the fact that an incredible amount of friendly rapport is being built just by telling jokes, or talking about what happened over the weekend. This barber maintains a lot if his customers, I’d imagine, by simply setting an expectation that when people come for a haircut, they get a friendly, inviting atmosphere as a bit of an “escape” from the everyday norm.

Yesterday, I made a trip with my pastor to see a friend who was about to undergo surgery. When we were there, it was interesting to see the amount of casual, non-surgery-related conversation going on. This was especially fascinating in that it seemed to improve the overall state-of-mind of the patients. I concluded from this that a lot of times, people facing uncertain circumstances often just need someone with whom to have a simple conversation.

I already mentioned that I made this trip with my pastor. Now, the stereotypical person would think that once we get in the car, the conversation is related to nothing but ministry. However, with a combined 4 hours in the car, this isn’t an easy feat. But there was a lot of casual conversation on this trip. And I found it very valuable. It’s comforting for anyone to know that pastors are people, too. I wonder if people have thought this way about me with my ministry. I wonder if my students have ever thought I was “unapproachable,” but that barrier was actually broken down by simple conversation.

So never underestimate the effectiveness of just talking to someone. You could possibly change a life by simply talking about the weather.

Right now, it’s hot. And it’s my turn in the barber’s chair.

-j

Awesome video, especially the ending. This is a video of a hawk with a camera attached to it – it’s amazing, and slightly surreal, to watch.

What I did this weekend: Saturday morning, I decided to get up early and take on the task of cleaning out/setting up our pool. We have one of those above-ground, canvas-style pools, and we took it down last year, but didn’t put it away. So, it got filled with pine straw, grew tons of “pool scum,” and attracted quite a few slugs and nightcrawlers. I got in and spent about 4 hours cleaning like crazy. It now looks as though it’s brand new, and I’m very proud of myself for doing it – when I first looked at it, I thought, “There’s absolutely no way I’m going to be able to do this.” So there’s quite a sense of accomplishment with me right now.

This morning was our baccalaureate Sunday service, and it was great. I am so proud of our graduates and it was nice to recognize them for the hard work they’ve put in. I can’t wait to see where they all go from here. Took a much-needed mini-nap this afternoon, and found out that my daughter is entranced by all things Barney. Ugh.

How I’m feeling right now (physically): Sore, sore, SORE (from cleaning the pool).

How I’m feeling right now (emotionally): A little bit of this, a little bit of that.

How I’m feeling right now (spiritually): Eager – I am excited to see how God is going to work this week.

To Do this week: I’ve got several meetings this week, and I’m finishing up the last of my 2009-2010 programming. I’m also reorganizing my entire office and moving in my new desk and credenza.

Book I’m in the midst of: Finally finished You Are Not Alone by Shirley Perich, which was a tough one to get through. See my previous blog post for more on that. I picked up a great book from the Youth Specialties clearance last week called The Space Betweek: A Parent’s Guide to Teenage Development by Dr. Walt Mueller. Mueller has appeared on tons of news programs as sort of an authority on youth culture and family issues, and this book has been pretty hyped among ministry circles. It’s great so far – should be done with it tonight or tomorrow. He’s attempting to bridge the knowledge gap between toddlers and young adults by taking us through adolescence, “one day at a time.”

Music I’m currently listening to: Honestly, this has been a slow week as far as music goes. I haven’t really listened to much. Most of my listening this week has been different podcasted sermons, from Andy Stanley, Rob Bell, and our own Matt Rich.

What I’m dreading this week: Moving all the new office furniture tomorrow, whilst being incredibly sore.

What I’m really excited about this week: The Pens, maybe making a run for the Cup, and starting a new UNC class.