Mentoring: Intentionality vs. Formality

Jesus’ call to His disciples was, “Follow Me. Walk where I’m walking. Go where I’m going. And along the way, I’ve got some things to teach you.”

Jesus didn’t necessarily seek out a fig tree, a field, or a farmer. He was walking by those things, and He used those moments that naturally occurred to teach spiritual truth. But He had to be walking with people in order to have that opportunity.

When people from an older generation invite those younger than them into their lives, they have that chance. Whether eating a meal, going to the movies, or having a conversation, the natural circumstances emerge to see and seize teaching opportunities through sharing life together.

Though some specific direction can be emphasized in those relationships, the greatest learning moments will surface during everyday occurrences as they live life together—funerals, weddings, meals, baseball games, and family events. While mentoring does require time and vulnerability, the biggest key is intentionality. That’s what Jesus demonstrated as He walked side by side with others.

Sometimes we confuse intentionality with formality. It’s not about blocking extra hours (that you likely don’t have) for “mentoring time.” Instead, it’s about mentoring people within the existing hours that you do have. Regimented weekly meetings are fine for some, but they’ll never be as effective as simply bringing others into your everyday life.