Making a difference

living our faith in tangible ways

Jesus asked the lawyer, “Which of these three, do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”-Luke 10:36-37

When we ask ourselves, “Who is my neighbor?” it can change our posture. It can make us ask questions like: “Am I seeing others?” “Am I being merciful?”
Mercy is the compassionate treatment of others, regardless of their situation. There are no ulterior motives; nothing is expected in return. It’s very freeing to show kindness in this way.

Who do you know who might need a kind word, an encouraging thought, a warm meal, a bag of groceries, or a plate of cookies? Some days, even a phone call or Zoom lunch can do so much to brighten one’s life. Who are you a neighbor to?

July Challenge:

Summer is a time when more people in our neighborhoods are outside doing things like washing cars, working in their yards, grilling out, and going for walks or to the pool. Seize the opportunities to reconnect with longstanding neighbors and meet new ones. Learn their names and use them often. Listen for ways you can pray for them and their families, and invite them over for dinners, desserts, and/or discussions. Offer game nights, to babysit their children so they can go out for dinner or coffee, and help caring for their home and/or animals while they are away. Make goodies to share with them. Be the kind of neighbor and friend you would love to have.