The Power of Connection (A Faith Edge)

The Power of Connection, with a Christian edge

The Beautiful 90’s

Let me introduce myself... I’m a 90’s Indie kid. I loved the 90’s music scene (and still do!) and was always a Blur fan more than Oasis! In 1992, a song started to be played in the Pink Toothbrush underground club I used to love in Rayleigh, called Connected by The Stereo MC’s. It’s one of those songs that defined a year for me, and every time I hear it now, it takes me back to being 16 years old, wearing baggy jeans, green DM’s, and a Cure t-shirt.

But connection doesn’t just define me as a 16-year-old—it defines all of humanity.

I’m obviously not talking about a song! I’m talking about the power of true human connection. As a professional Life Coach, I see the power of this connection as the basis of my work. It brings deep transformation by overcoming limiting self-beliefs and stuck situations, along with personal growth that helps confidence and faith flourish.

But let’s be honest for a moment—life can feel pretty disconnected sometimes. We can be crazy busy, glued to our screens, rushing from one thing to the next, and before we know it, we’ve lost that deep, meaningful connection with the people around us. Here’s the good news: Jesus was (and still is) the ultimate connector. He showed us how to truly see people, love them, and build relationships that matter.

So, let’s take a look at how Rabbi Jesus taught humanity to connect in a disconnected world.

Jesus: The Ultimate People Person

Jesus had incredible emotional intelligence and was a true master of social connection. He spent time with everyone—fishermen, tax collectors, religious leaders, and those society had cast aside. He made people feel seen, valued, and deeply loved. He understood the impact of disconnection in our world and knew exactly how to bring people back to God and back to each other. Relationship and connection weren’t just things He taught; they were woven into His very nature. He has existed in perfect relationship since before time began and designed us to experience the same depth of connection in our lives.

Care, Conversation, and Coffee

Jesus showed us that connection is at the heart of the Kingdom of God. He didn’t just talk to people—He cared enough to truly see them. Consider Mark 1:40-42, where He reached out and healed a leper, someone society had cast out completely. It wasn’t just about physical healing; it was about restoring dignity, belonging, and love. That’s what true connection does—it shows people they matter.

Jesus also knew the power of conversation. If there’s one person I’d love to have a brew with, it’s Him! Consider His time with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-26). He didn’t just break cultural barriers; He spoke truth that changed her life. We can follow His lead by truly listening to others, not just waiting for our turn to speak.

Listening is just one area where Jesus really impacts my Coaching approach. Psychologist Carl Rogers said, "When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mould you, it feels really good!" This is the kind of listening that changes lives. One of my most popular workshops focuses on the art of listening because more and more people are realising that listening isn’t just a natural attribute—it’s a skill that can be developed to form healthy relationships.

And Jesus didn’t do life alone. He built community. The early church continued what He started by sharing meals, supporting one another, and living life together (Acts 2:42-47). Fast forward to today, and while technology keeps us “connected,” loneliness is still everywhere. Jesus calls us to change that, and sometimes, all it takes is putting the kettle on and inviting someone round for a real, in-person coffee and chat.

Bridges, Being, and a Boost

Jesus didn’t just preach about love and connection—He showed us how to live it out. His inner and outer life were perfectly aligned... He was truly authentic and congruent.

Disconnection often creates barriers between people—whether through politics, beliefs, or backgrounds. But Jesus calls us to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). Choosing love over judgment, reaching out, and having tough conversations with kindness all build bridges of connection. Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as a smile or just showing up for someone.

True connection also requires being present. In a culture obsessed with productivity, Jesus showed us that people matter more than tasks. Whether He was sharing a meal with sinners (Luke 5:29-32) or weeping with friends (John 11:33-35), He was fully engaged. By being present with others, without judgment or agenda, we create safe spaces where transformation can happen. So, let’s put down our phones, make eye contact, and really be with those around us. Deep relationships are built when we slow down and focus on what truly matters.

Finally, ask yourself this: Is encouragement essential in human connection? Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to spur one another on in faith because we grow stronger when we walk together. My favourite Carl Rogers quote is, "People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be. When I look at a sunset, I don’t find myself saying, 'Soften the orange a bit on the right-hand corner.' I don’t try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds." As a Christian Life Coach, I have the incredible opportunity to be a voice of encouragement while walking with people through change and pointing them back to Christ. Watching people grow into who God made them to be through connection is a beautiful thing.

Bring it Together

The Stereo MC’s sang about it, we all desire it, and Jesus had a lot to say about it. In a disconnected world, human connection is powerful.

What can we do for others, and what can we do for ourselves?

Invite people in. Share a meal, grab a coffee, or just make space for meaningful conversations.

Look for the lonely. Who around you feels unseen? Help them feel seen.

Be a great listener. Be present. Listen well and put your phone down.

Pray for others. Prayer isn’t just powerful—it’s a way to stay connected in spirit, even when we’re apart.

Find your people. Join a small group, a church community, or even start your own gathering.

Final Thoughts

Jesus showed us that connection isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. We were created for relationships, with God and with each other. In a world full of loneliness and division, we have the chance to bring people together with love and grace.

So, let’s learn from our teacher (Jesus) and be a people who build bridges, show up, and encourage others. When we truly connect, we get the incredible chance to change lives and bring the Kingdom of God a little closer to earth.