Be A NeighborShembull

BUT FIRST, LET’S PRAY The times we’re living in are no surprise to God. While we may feel carsick from the shifts in government, social justice protests, and worldwide pandemics, Jesus is no less equipped to move in and through His Church. In Matthew 11:12, Jesus said, “From the time John the Baptist began preaching until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing.” The Church has been presented with the greatest opportunity to rise up and demonstrate real faith. Nowhere is that more evident than in our relationships with our friends and neighbors. So let me ask you, in this world where you’re able to get food, healthcare, and even church delivered to your front door, do you know your neighbors? When was the last time you spoke with them? Had them over for dinner? Saw a need in their life and met it? Perhaps those steps seem too intense at first. But what about taking the small step of finding out their name and committing to pray for them every day for the next 5 days? After all, if “the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing,” why shouldn’t it continue to advance through you? ACTION STEP Pray this short prayer out loud: God, thank you for (your neighbors’ names). I pray your protection and provision over their life. Enable me to see how and when I can serve them, that they may experience your love, Jesus. In your name I pray, Amen.