Relationships that Matter Most
by Mike Killebrew
This past weekend, I returned to one of the most meaningful places in my life…the Ozarks. I was there with my family and some dear friends, paddling along spring-fed rivers and camping on a gravel bar. But it wasn’t just a fun getaway. This place holds decades of memories for me, memories of how Jesus shaped me and further connected me to those friends who still walk with me today.
During the summers of 1998,1999 and 2000 I served as a college age intern at an outdoor adventure ministry called Discovery Ministries (DM). It’s a ministry located in Eminence, MO, right where the Jacks Fork River meets the Current River. It’s a beautiful part of our country nestled in the heart of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, and it’s breathtaking. You’ll find rugged terrain, spring fed-rock bottom rivers with accompanying caves, shut-ins, forested hills and what the locals affectionately call “hollers.” God’s creativity is on full display around every river bend and hilltop.
As a high school student, I participated in a couple trips to DM with my youth group. Those experiences impacted me so deeply that I returned as an intern during college, serving three summers. It was there that I learned valuable life skills, developed a heart for ministry, clarified my calling to vocational ministry and furthered my faith journey. It was also in the Ozark wilderness, while on a challenge trip with a bunch of Jr. High kids, that I met my future wife and further cultivated some lifelong friendships.
As I reflect on this month’s BeEncouraged theme: Live like Jesus in relationships, I can’t help but thank the Lord for how He’s blessed me relationally. Not only did I spend this past weekend on the river with two of my closest friends and our families, but just the weekend before, I was at a family reunion with a big group of cousins and extended relatives. What a gift! God has been so good to me with deep, meaningful relationships.
As I celebrate the blessings of a strong, God-honoring family history and lifelong friendships, I’m reminded of the common thread that ties them together: Jesus. He is the common denominator. His example shapes how I want to live and love in my relationships. Jesus modeled relationships beautifully, and here are a few principles from His life that I want to follow.
Jesus Loved Sacrificially
Jesus lived selflessly and sacrificially. When He is at the center of our relationships, we’re empowered to put others' needs ahead of our own, remain patient in conflict, and extend kindness even when it’s difficult.
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:12–13
Jesus Practiced Forgiveness
Even in His most painful moments, Jesus chose forgiveness. As we follow Him, we’re called to extend that same grace. Whether it’s letting go of bitterness or seeking reconciliation, forgiveness is essential for healthy relationships. When we practice forgiveness, we are living like Jesus.
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Colossians 3:13
Jesus Was Present and Attentive
Jesus was fully present with people. Jesus listened, He noticed, and He responded with compassion. In our fast-paced lives, choosing to slow down and truly be with those we love is one of the best ways to live like Him.
In the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38–42), Jesus reminds us that presence matters more than busyness. He valued meaningful conversations, quality time, and intentional acts of love.
As you consider your relationships, whether with family, friends, or others, ask yourself: Is living like Jesus the common denominator? Here are three questions to ask to help you determine your answer:
How can I show sacrificial love to my family or friends this week?
Is there someone I need to forgive or seek forgiveness from?
Am I truly present with the people I care about, or am I distracted?
Let’s be people who live like Jesus in our relationships, with loving sacrifice, forgiveness for those around us, and being present.
