Chuck Stecker

Several months ago, I had the amazing privilege to listen to a panel discussion at the CASA Network International Leadership Conference in Dallas, Texas.

First, let me say I am a huge fan of CASA Network; and I currently serve on the Board of Directors. I am clearly bias and I admit my prejudices for this organization and the work it is doing through the member ministries.

The panel consisted of Dr. Stu and Jill Briscoe and their son Pastor Pete Briscoe; it was wonderfully facilitated by Pastor John Coulombe – – another CASA board member.

It would require several pages to highlight all the points from the session, but I want to share one significant takeaway for me.

Jill Briscoe shared the story of her relationship with a young lady in her teens who initially was very wary of trusting anyone. As they grew to know the hearts of one another, the young lady told Jill, “Because you listened to me, I knew you loved me. And because you loved me, I could listen to you.”

How very simple and profound!

We have often heard or used the words, “Ministry of Presence.” Perhaps this young lady captured the concept in a sentence that began, “Because you listened…”

In the very fast-paced world of young men and women that is often shallow and devoid of true friendships, listening can be one of the greatest things we can do for them.

I came away from the conference with a renewed desire to be a good listener. In addition, knowing how to ask the right questions is also an important learned skill.

I want to ask questions that show a genuine interest and require me to listen intently, because I do not know in advance the response that is coming – – not questions that beg a preconceived answer I desire to pull out of the person.

All of the “apps” available to this younger generation is not helping them to develop deep relationships. Far too many of the emerging generation have no one they feel they can honestly trust.

Asking great questions and being a sincere listener can be the start of a journey leading to incredible Intergenerational relationships.