It is a challenging command to say the least, “Love your neighbors as yourself.” (Luke 10:27) Granted, as Jesus pointed out everyone is my neighbor, but what about my literal neighbors: the families who occupy the houses in the same neighborhood I live in. Then I realized, “How can I love my neighbors if don’t even know them?” Are you in the same boat? How many of you actually know your neighbors beyond just a friendly wave? Do you even know their names? Sadly, I must confess that I don’t know my neighbors.
Now I do know that the neighbors who live across the street from me are huge Texas A & M fans. Not because I have talked to them about the Aggies, but because of the A&M memorabilia that dots the outside of their house. Or what about the neighbors next door to me who just moved in. What do I know about them other than they are relocating from another city in the Metroplex? The only reason I know that is because a piece of their mail was mistakenly put in our mailbox. Really? How am I to love my literal neighbors if I don’t even know them? So I am including three ways we can connect with our neighbors:
Take the first step
Proverbs points out that, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly.” (Prov. 18:24). When you see your neighbors outside, take the opportunity to walk over and start a conversation. Introduce yourself and your family. As you interact with them, remember that you have two ears and one mouth. Listen more than talk.
Do something nice for them
If you can cook or bake, make something they might like. I’m not sure breaking out the Special K loaf at this point is a good idea. Stay neutral with your gift until you know more about them. If you don’t have culinary skills, do something small for them that brightens their day.
Invite them for a meal
Nothing helps people get to know each other more than sitting down and sharing a meal together. Again, remember that your diet may be different than theirs, so this may not be the time to try out your new recipe for pumpkin soup. Make it simple because the food isn’t as important as the conversation that happens during the meal.
One last word and that has to do with motivation. You are not connecting with your neighbors so that you can give them a copy of The Great Controversy or discuss theology, unless they have an interest and bring it up. Instead, you are showing them Jesus by loving them. The rest will work itself out.
Well, I better close now, I have some neighbors to meet.
Originally published in the Fall, 2013 issue of the Texas Conference Flame