Daily Power #134

“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself.” (Lev. 19:18)

Because my family lives out in the boonies, our nearest neighbor is a long walk away. With such distance between our house and our neighbors’ homes, I’m tempted to feel like we’re off the hook. It’s not that hard to be nice when you only pass each other on the street every now and then.

Jesus redefined neighbor to include basically everyone, not just those in physical proximity. Neighbors are all around us, whether we know their names or notice them at all.

The lady serving our coffee in the diner, the older man sitting across from us on the bus, the awkward kid in our youth group at church. That coworker who annoys us with her strangely flavored lattes and constant cat videos. The extended family member who just went into the nursing home. The single mom and her two little girls across the hall.

Jesus told us that anyone we come in contact with is our neighbor. We’re told to treat them—actually, to love them—the same way we love ourselves, especially if they’re in need and we can help them.

Today notice every neighbor you encounter, not just those who live across the street. Try to show them the love of Christ through your attitude and actions.

Power Lift

Dear God, help me to love my neighbors as myself, to put them and their needs above my own.