We all long to belong. God knew it from the very beginning. From the first pages of Scripture, God shows us that it is not good for us to be isolated, and throughout His Word, He calls us into community with Him and with others.
Whether it’s laughing so hard with friends I can’t breathe or having someone show up when I’m at my lowest, I’ve learned that God loves to remind me I don’t have to walk through this life by myself. One of the most unexpected and life-changing ways He taught me this was through a mentor I didn’t even know I needed until she wouldn’t stop bugging me.
SharpTop Cove is the Young Life camp where I served for 13 months. I was part of a one-year internship program where I lived, worked, and grew alongside nine other young adults. Part of the program required us to have a mentor, and that’s where Jenn enters the story.
I was given a list of women on staff or staff spouses willing to mentor us. I “mentor dated” a few, meeting with Jenn first, and honestly, she intimidated me. She radiated energy and didn’t beat around the bush. Within 15 minutes, she had me talking about my deepest struggles, and I felt overwhelmed, crossing her off my list immediately.
Over the next couple of weeks, I spent time with two other women, but I didn’t feel a connection with them. I was about to settle and pick one just to check the box. But Jenn kept calling, texting, and checking in on me. I felt bad, so I met with her again. It became clear who my mentor was.
Last year, I faced some of the hardest doubts about God and the worst beliefs about myself, but Jenn kept showing up, reminding me of God’s truth and never letting me forget who I am in Him. She made me part of her family and became one of my favorite people.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.” God never intended for us to live alone. We are called to fight for community because it is worth it.
Though she still lives 15 hours away and I may not see her for a while, we call, text, and leave voice messages as often as we can.
I pray that everyone gets to experience life with a “Jenn”—someone who is loving, intentional, and faithful, reminding you of Jesus when you forget and standing by your side as you grow in faith. But more than that, I pray we all become that person for someone else, showing up consistently, pointing them to Jesus, and living out God’s call to love and disciple His people, one relationship at a time.
Have the best day!
Jayden Smith