We are Called to Love Our Neighbor

We were given the great commission to make disciples and to love our neighbor. Yet many of us don’t love our own neighbor much less those on the other side of the world.

Do you have a neighbor that is loud and parties alot, or one that perhaps does not mow their yard regularly. Maybe it’s your coworkers that annoy you to no end.

When is the last time you prayed for your neighbor? Not counting the prayers when you asked for patience or tolerance. But prayers offered for them that you may show them the love Jesus asked you to share.

In the time that it takes you to read this people are making their way to the feet of Jesus but may not be allowed in his company (Luke 13:27). Do you want to be the one sitting by letting them take their chances? Or would you rather be to one to show them the LOVE Jesus has shared with you by sharing it with them. In sharing the word with your neighbors you answer the call. In answering the call you complete the great commission we are called to serve.

Mission work and discipleship starts at home in our own neighborhoods. Finding ways to bless those that are less fortunate we stave off the need in our own neighborhood. We live lives of excess meanwhile there are those that are starving either physically, spirituality or both living next door.

You might think that you don’t have anything that your neighbors need or want. We were each made with specific gifts that only you possess and only you can share. These gifts make you different and allow you to bless others in one the way that you can. You were fearfully and wonderfully made in His image. I pray that you find your own perfect way to share your gifts with those that cross your path in this life that you may see them again.

As people who serve as disciples sharing love for our neighbors both near and far we draw closer to God, our Father. Allowing ourselves to be filled by the Holy Spirit we can speak blessings into those that we may meet.

While we put together our Christmas card list, why not include the neighbors no one speaks to. How about adding a small gift to your list to give to them. Perhaps something as simple as a card or even just a note and a prayer.

As you shop for gifts for your family, why not shop for those truly in need. Whether is be a new toy or clothes for a local orphan or widow. Or perhaps sponsoring a child from afar, finding gifts that express the LOVE we were called to share. Gifts we should share year-round as He gives His LOVE to us.