From my update email October 23, 2026. Signup here.
Deep in our souls, we desire close relationships. From the beginning, God designed us to be in right relationship with Him and with one another.
The problem is, we’re often lost on how to get there.
If God designed good relationships and we desire them, why is it so hard to get close and stay close? Whether in marriage, with our children, parents, or siblings—or even in our workplaces, neighbourhoods, and casual friendships—relationships are simply difficult.
Yet, the Gospel is fundamentally relational. From the familial themes running throughout Scripture to the doctrines of reconciliation and justification (being made right with God), the Bible emphasizes connection. With 59 “one another” commands—16 of which explicitly call us to “love one another”—the Good News of Jesus Christ invites us into the very family of God.
I decided to do something about this problem.
Just over three years ago, I stepped out to serve with FamilyLife Canada. I did so because I believe there is a relational-discipleship gap in the church—and a powerful opportunity to bridge it.
Here are some ways I’ve been able to spark new ministry for better family relationships in recent days and weeks:
• Last Saturday, my wife and I shared in our Together for Good marriage workshop in Fergus, ON (50 couples!) to help couples fight drift, enjoy sexual intimacy and recommit to a personal relationship with Jesus.
• This week, I met in person and on Zoom with some parents to talk about the Connected Families’ resource called Quick Guide for Parenting so they can get access to tools to help them connect even while they discipline.
• I’ve mentored and coached parents in ways that help kids learn responsibility with fun rather than relationally destructive coercion.
• My wife and I have mentored couples to have those much needed conversations so they can stay close and flourish.
• My Family Rhythm discipleship content that points to the hope of restored relationships in Christ has been shared.
• A steering team has been formed to bring our Marriage Ministry Workshop to the Sarnia-Lambton region so churches can build local ministry that promotes stronger, healthier marriages built on covenant love and faithfulness.
• I’ve connected with children’s ministry leaders in my denomination to get a network going so leaders don’t feel alone.
• I’m continually connecting with leaders that are a part of our growing movement of Family and Marriage Ministry Networks because we know we need each other.
• Our Parent Huddles are catching on in churches (150 signups!) so that parents know they have a community around them as they try to answer difficult parenting questions.
• My habits and values talk is officially a part of our Parent Huddles library which helps parents develop relationally healthy habits which embed lifelong values in their children.
Phew! As I write this, I’m humbled, grateful and inspired by what God is doing through this ministry.
What’s next? What more can be done? Will you join with me in this mission? Perhaps your urgency in prayer can increase or your financial support can start or expand or maybe you’re ready to get involved or become a HomeBuilder.
I’m here for all of it…
…and I can’t do any of this without the generosity of God’s people. So thank you for making all of this possible.
Steve
P.S. It’s been over three years since I joined FamilyLife Canada, and I’d love to hear your thoughts—comment on this post and let me know how you’re building stronger relationships in your community!
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