Neighbors

Over the past few years we have been quite travelers. We have been to Ireland (twice), England (4 times), Scotland (twice), Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. While a few other trips have gotten cancelled, we have been very blessed to get out and see some of the world beyond US borders.

It’s always interesting to hear from the locals about their thoughts on a variety of subjects. The history of their respective countries shape their views of neighboring countries just like it does for us in the US. For example, neither the Irish nor the Scottish particularly care for the English. The English don’t like the French. Spain and Portugal can’t seem to get along and, supposedly, the French don’t really like anyone. Italy seems to go on their merry way without worrying about neighboring rivalries so much - maybe it’s the wine…

As we have encountered all of these nationalities and cultures, I have to say that they were all nice to us. I guess that when one is not part of the neighboring rivalries, you get a free pass from border hostilities. With the current war in Israel, you can feel a little tension in the air as it relates to Christian/Muslim relations - but that it also true in parts of the US. Religious wars are fierce and have shaped history for thousands of years. Spending time in Europe is a constant reminder of that.

Jesus said that the second greatest commandment, after loving God with all of our heart, is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This is a very challenging command and it begs the question - Who is this neighbor that I am supposed to love?

This same question was asked by a Jewish scribe to Jesus in Luke 10. Jesus’s response came through the parable of the Good Samaritan. Jesus then told the Scribe to “go and do likewise.” Applying the teaching in this parable, our “neighbor” would be anyone that God puts in our path. Does that extend even to people that don’t like us? Jesus answered this as well in Matthew 5:44-48:

Jesus said, “I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect”

This is the high call of being a follower of Christ. We love people by genuinely seeking what is best for them from a Christian worldview. Loving others does not mean always agreeing with or accommodating them but it does means that we have concern for their physical and spiritual needs. God places people in our path that we are uniquely equipped to help. Are we paying attention? Are we available? How can we help a “neighbor” this week?

Stay Hungry,

Big E

Matt. 5:6