Well, you did it. You said, “Yes!” to hosting a group in your home. Now with sweaty palms you’re facing your first group meeting. What do you need to do? What if nobody shows up? What if things don’t go well? Everyone who’s ever started a group has felt the way you do right now. Here are a few things to focus on for a successful first meeting:
1. Connect with Your New Group Members Before the Meeting.
Every successful meeting starts with the “meeting before the meeting.” You want to know what to expect on your first night. If you’ve just met your new group members, a phone call shortly after a small group connection event is great to introduce yourself, remind them of the meeting, give directions, and encourage them to attend. If you’re inviting friends to your group, a simple email reminder would suffice. With either group, ask them to contact you if their plans change in any way. They might have to work late, have a family illness, or some other emergency pop up.
2. Review the Lesson.
It’s important to know where the discussion is headed. If your curriculum has a DVD, watch the DVD and any leadership training on the DVD. Sometimes the author will throw you a curve ball by asking you to provide certain supplies for an icebreaker question or illustration in the meeting. You don’t want to be caught flat footed. You also want to know what’s coming to avoid getting ahead of yourself in the discussion. You don’t want to accidentally answer question eight while you’re on question two.
3. Prepare Yourself for the Meeting.
Most new leaders feel nervous and inadequate in leading a group. First of all, welcome to the ministry. Everyone at times feels inadequate for God’s purposes. And, fortunately, you don’t have to be adequate. God will make you adequate.
Any anxiety you’re experiencing should fall under Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Anxiety is the red light on the dashboard of your soul indicating PRAY!
If your nerves have got the best of you, this is the opportunity to tell God, “I don’t feel that I have much to offer (you have more to offer than you think), God take over this meeting. Work through me. Help me to accomplish what You intend for this group.” God is more interested in your availability than in your ability. He equips the called! You’ve been called.
4. Clean Your House, But Not Too Much
Company is coming over, so do you best to dust the shelves, vacuum the floor, and clean the bathroom. But, don’t present a perfect house. Few people live in a perfect house. It’s okay to let some imperfections show. Years ago, I heard Lisa Welchel (Blair from Facts of Life) mention when she prepares her home for a group, she always leaves something undone. Her group members see she has a normal life, just like they do.
5. Prepare Some Food (Or Phone a Friend)
A few refreshments puts everyone in a more social mood. Whether it’s a healthy snack or a luscious brownie, food brings people together. If you have too much on your plate, invite a friend or a member of the group to bring something. This not only helps you but it also guarantees the new member will show up. Once you get others to start bringing refreshments, never stop. This is one way to give others ownership in the group.
6. Expect Imperfection.
No matter how well you plan, everything will not go exactly right. Just like a wedding ceremony, something unexpected will take place. Often this creates a special memory. It certainly lets everyone know you’re normal.
Whether half the group doesn’t show or the DVD doesn’t play, it’s okay. Things happen. The most important thing is for your group members to feel welcomed and loved. People will come back if they feel accepted. But, even the best run meeting in a cold environment won’t succeed. Who you are is far more important than what you do.
