Jared never missed a Sunday.
That had to count for something, right?
He sat in his usual spot—third row from the back, far enough to blend in, close enough to not seem like he was avoiding the message. He sang when everyone sang, bowed his head when everyone prayed, even lifted a hand during worship once or twice when the moment felt right.
But that was it. That was enough.
He was a good person. He believed in God. He showed up. What more was he supposed to do?
The closing prayer wrapped up, and people started moving—some rushing out, some stopping to chat. Jared pulled out his phone, scrolling mindlessly, waiting for the right moment to slip out unnoticed.
“Hey, Jared.”
He looked up. It was Chris. He led one of the small groups, always seemed to be involved in something.
“Hey, man,” Jared said, forcing a smile.
Chris sat down next to him like he had all the time in the world. “I’ve seen you around for a while. You ever thought about joining one of the groups?”
Jared gave a short laugh. “Oh, I don’t know, man. I’m good. I like church, just…” He shrugged. “Not really a small group kind of guy.”
Chris nodded. “Yeah, I get that. You like to keep your faith personal?”
“Exactly,” Jared said, relieved that Chris understood. “I mean, I believe. I show up. I try to do the right thing. That’s enough, right?”
Chris leaned back, thoughtful. “That’s where I was a few years ago. Just showing up, doing my part. Felt like I was checking all the right boxes.”
Jared smirked. “And then what? You got recruited?”
Chris chuckled. “Nah. Then I realized something was missing. I wasn’t growing. I knew about God, but I wasn’t walking with Him. And when I finally let people in—really let them in—it changed everything.”
Jared swallowed. “I don’t know, man. I’m not the kind of guy who’s all… deep about faith. I wouldn’t even know what to say in a group like that.”
Chris shook his head. “You don’t have to say anything. You just show up. You let people walk with you, same way Jesus walked with His disciples. That’s how growth happens. Not alone.”
Jared hesitated. The thought of being seen like that made him uncomfortable. But at the same time…
Something inside him knew Chris was right.
Chris stood, clapping a hand on his shoulder. “No pressure. Just think about it.”
Jared nodded, forcing another smile. But long after Chris walked away, his words stayed.
Maybe just showing up wasn’t enough after all. Maybe there was more.
And maybe… it was time to find out.
Is there anyone that you should discuss these issues with to find hope? Are you ready to disciple a Jared? If so, please click here to sign up as a Small Group Leader and Sync with God will help you mentor those Jared’s in your area of influence.
