At Fairhaven, we believe we’re called to Make God Known, and we encourage everyone to embrace the idea of Reaching Two: intentionally identifying two people in your life who don’t know Jesus, and praying for them, investing in them, and inviting them to experience His hope.
We know that can feel challenging or uncertain, so we’ve put together this guide to help you take your next step in reaching people in your life.
How do I identify my two people?
Start by thinking about people you’re already connected with. Who do you regularly cross paths with?
It might be:
- A coworker you chat with casually
- A neighbor you wave to or exchange small talk with
- A friend you occasionally run into
- Someone you know well, but have never discussed faith with
Begin with relationships you already have. Even if you’re not close yet, Reaching Two is about developing deeper relationships and becoming more invested in their lives.
How do I reach out to them?
Here are five simple ways you can begin connecting more intentionally and investing in your relationships with your Reaching Two:
1. BEGIN WITH PRAYER
Prayer is where it all starts. Ask God to reveal who He’s placed in your life to reach and pray regularly for them. Pray for their needs, for God to stir their hearts, and for opportunities to show them His love. You can even ask them how you can pray for them personally.
Action Step: Write down your Reaching Two names and begin praying specifically for them.
2. LISTEN
Building real relationships starts with genuine listening. Ask thoughtful questions, take interest in their life, listen for challenges they face, and pay attention to their passions or concerns. Listening well shows care and opens doors for deeper connection.
Action Step: Next time you interact, focus on learning more about them: what excites them, stresses them, or matters most to them.
3. EAT
There’s something powerful about sharing a meal. Eating together moves relationships from acquaintance to friendship. Invite them to coffee, lunch, dinner, or even over to your home. It’s a simple, natural way to grow closer.
Action Step: Make a plan to grab coffee, a meal, or even host them in your home soon.
4. SERVE
As you listen and engage, look for ways to serve. Maybe you can help with a practical need, lend a hand, or simply show up when they need support. Serving demonstrates the heart of Jesus and builds trust.
Action Step: Be on the lookout for small ways you can step in and help.
5. SHARE
When the relationship deepens, be ready to share your story. Talk about how Jesus has made a difference in your life. It doesn’t need to be polished, just honest. Invite them to church, to your small group, or to explore faith further.
Action Step: Prepare to share your story: What was your life like before knowing Jesus? How has He changed you?
How should I pray for them?
Here are three simple ways to pray over your Reaching Two:
- Praying for open hearts. Ask God to soften their hearts and prepare them to receive the hope of Jesus. Pray they’ll be open to spiritual conversations and become aware of God working in their lives.
- Praying for relationship building. Pray that God will help you build trust-filled, meaningful relationships with them. Ask Him to use you to show love, support, and encouragement.
- Praying for opportunities to share and invite. Ask God to give you the right moments to invite them to church or share your faith. Pray for boldness, wisdom, and clear opportunities to point them to Jesus.
How do I invite them?
Ready to invite, but not sure how to start? Here’s a simple message you can personalize:
“Hey! I’ve been attending Fairhaven Church for a while and have found a lot of joy and hope here. I’d love for you to experience it too. If you’re curious, here’s a quick link to learn more. Let me know if you’d like to come along! https://fairhaven.church/new
Offer to meet them at the door, sit with them, and grab coffee afterward.
You can also grab an invite card from your campus or share this video to show them what Fairhaven is like: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KS-E5rH6Q70
Let’s reach together!
God has placed people in your life for a reason. Let’s be intentional, prayerful, and bold – so that everyone can find hope in Jesus.