When Jesus taught us to love our neighbor, “neighbor” meant much more than simply the person living next door.
What does being a good neighbor look like in everyday life today? Is it helping when someone needs it, checking on people, listening, showing patience—or sometimes simply noticing the people around us?
What is one small thing that can make someone feel like they have a good neighbor?
Being a good neighbor isn’t built on works. Being Christ like doesn’t come from thinking about doing something for someone out the kindness of your heart. Think about the parable of the man everyone walked by. Even a priest walked by the injured man. Luke 10:25-37 Jesus was speaking to the lawyer. I hope this helped
Attentiveness (Noticing). Most of us travel through our day at the speed of life. In a fast-paced, screen-focused world, simply slowing down enough to pay attention to people such as a lonely coworker, an overwhelmed parent, or an elderly neighbor is an act of love.
This includes being present. Giving someone your undivided time and listening without rushing to fix or lecture. Here is one that is all but lost. Practical hospitality. Bringing a meal, helping with yard work, checking in during bad weather, or offering a ride. I know it takes a bit of effort. It is well worth it in the long run.
Here is another that is really hard: Patient Grace. Showing patience and forbearance when neighbors are difficult, noisy, or hold differing opinions.
One small thing that makes a big difference?
If you’re looking for a simple, practical way to respond to Ellen’s prompt, one small thing that regularly transforms relationships is remembering and using people’s names alongside a genuine question about their life. AS LONG AS YOU WAIT FOR THE ANSWER. Not just say, “Hey, how are ya?” and keep walking. It costs nothing, but asking someone, “How are you really doing?” and listening to the answer communicates: “You are seen, you matter, and you aren’t invisible.”
Be blessed, be a blessing.
Peter
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
I used to think that “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Not anymore, because the heart can be deceitful and pick and choose individuals because they resemble them in some way or another. I have a people unknown to me that enter my dwelling every time I leave and take items going through my personal belongings taking soap, coffee, food and anything that is not tied down. So, I realized that God blessed me more than I could ever realize. The anger was available, but the hounds of heaven let me know that Jesus loves the black sheep. Jesus Christ was hung on the cross next to a thief. Everyone I meet are my neighbors, let go and let God!