The Power of a Mentor

I read an interesting article over on CNN earlier today about Donald Miller and David Gentiles (pictured above). Never heard of Gentiles? Well, if it weren't for Gentiles you probably would never have heard of Miller. Regardless of what you think about Miller's personality, theological positions or political affections, this article is a great testimony to the power of mentoring.

One life being poured into another for the sake, not just of that individual, but for the sake of the broader kingdom.

It is what Atlanta business-man Regi Campbell in a 2009 book titled "Mentor Like Jesus" calls "intentionally investing in the next generation .... for God's glory." It is a process patterned by Jesus and commanded by Jesus. And it is an area in which many modern evangelical churches, for all of our technological know-how and theological precision are amazingly anemic.

So read about Gentiles' impact on Miller. Consider the books not written, the initiatives not begun and ask yourself, who are those in the next generation into whom you are pouring your life?

Then join me in repentance over our failure to give away what we have been so freely given, namely our lives and the grace by which to live them through faith in the unmerited favor and blessing of a Savior greater than we could ever imagine. Then, and only then, in light of this amazing grace shown to us, let us move forward into the amazing and humbling challenge of pouring what we have been given into the lives of others. For the glory of God.