We have been playing a short game and praying everyday as at our office. I have been curious about building meaningful connection. How do we create mini moments of joy and wonder? How do we consistently build times to laugh, to pray, to encourage, to learn and grow? 

I think about the culture Dad wanted to create at NBC. He built our home like this. Every morning we met for breakfast and devotions. They were not long, and they were never boring. Those were Mom and Dad’s two key rules. Short and sweet and full of energy. Dad was so talented at making sure his energy didn’t drive the morning. Everyone had to participate – guests, friends, family, everyone was included.  

At the NBC Central Office all participate – interns, full time, even sometimes the mail carrier Paul. 

What are the consistent elements? 1. Gratitude. We will almost always start with gratitude for the world and God and for each other. 2. Food. We will always have something to eat and share together like apples, popcorn, toast, or soup. 3. Learning time through watching a brief video, memorizing a scripture, playing a game, or reading a book. 4. Meaningful conversation. Time to speak from the heart in loving and authentic ways. Time to spotlight each other and speak a word of encouragement. 

These are elements we strive for in my home and around the NBC office. It takes effort to plan. It can seem a waste with all the “real” work at hand. Dad taught me loving well is the most important work. It doesn’t take long. Thirty-minute staff meeting, 15-minute prayer time, 5-minute group game, and a short round of spotlights. All these add up to a caring culture.  

These moments are what heal and change us.  

Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love another deeply from the heart. – 1 Peter 1:22

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