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“Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” – Matthew 22:37-39
Matthew 22 is a well-known and often recited passage of scripture, and for good reason. In this passage, Jesus calls us to care deeply about Him and those He has placed around us in our families, workplaces, and neighborhoods.
In The Message paraphrase of the Bible, Jesus’ coming is expressed in this way: “The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood…” (John 1:14). He came to live among us to reach us and love us in ways we could understand. God has placed you in your neighborhood for important reasons, one of which is to love your neighbors more intentionally.
So, how can we share God’s love with others? One is to share the gospel. As a church, we hope you’re encouraged to consider what makes Christianity unique and remarkable. Furthermore, we hope you are inspired and emboldened to share your faith. St. Francis of Assisi says, “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” The sentiment is very true. Think about how you behave around someone and how that would impact how they view your words.
For example, be intentional about showing kindness to others, even in simple ways. Listen to others: Take the time to hear what someone is saying without judgment or interruption. Serve others: Serving others is a tangible way to show God’s love. Look for ways to serve in your community or church, and be open to opportunities to serve those around you.
Go before God in prayer for your neighbors. Pray specific prayers when you know neighbors well enough to understand their situations. Observe and pray for those you don’t know as well. For example, a house with toys scattered out front is home to a family—even if you don’t know them, pray for God’s grace on their family relationships. Ask God to reveal specific neighbors for whom you can start praying.
Be patient and forgiving: We all make mistakes and fall short. When someone wrongs you, choose to extend forgiveness and patience. This can be a powerful way to show God’s love and grace. Be an encourager by speaking words of encouragement and affirmation to those around you. Be a peacemaker: In a world of conflict and division, be a peacemaker. Seek to reconcile relationships and promote peace and unity.
God’s love is not meant to be hoarded or kept to ourselves. It’s meant to be shared with others. As we love God with all our hearts, souls, and minds, we are filled with His love, which overflows to those around us.
Even small sacrifices—of our time or resources—please the Lord. Let’s reach out this week and share God’s love with others.
Discussion Questions:
- Are we a “display window” for the supernatural love of Christ? In what ways are we accomplishing this mission, and in what ways are we hindering it?