HOW TO IDENTIFY A “NEIGHBOR” AND WHAT THIS MEANS FOR US

Our “neighbor” theology is firmly rooted in our belief in Jesus Christ, who came not to be served but to serve. We profess that as followers of Christ, each of us is called to be a “little Christ” to others. These “others” are our neighbors, whom God places in our lives on purpose. Important earmarks for recognizing a neighbor may include the following:

1. Look for obvious signs of being in need. If you see someone in need, assume that person is a neighbor. Signs of need include hunger, lack of shelter, distress or anxiety, or destructive behavior patterns. People with poor fashion sense are neighbors but may require a lighter touch.

2. Apply a reckless lack of discrimination in your analysis. Jesus ate with tax collectors and prostitutes. There is no universal profile for identifying a neighbor. Neighbors come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and ages and are often people you would least like to have as your neighbors. Note: Suffering unneighborly behavior from someone does not exempt you from regarding that person as a neighbor.

3. Practice receiving others’ neighborliness with grace. Your own skills in identifying and serving your neighbor may improve as you focus on the extraordinary kindnesses you receive daily from those around you. Adopt an attitude of abundance in this regard.

4. Make a thorough inventory of all neighbors within your personal reach. Family members, roommates, coworkers, bad drivers, children, and convenience store clerks should be included in your list. Practice Christlike neighborliness toward these people.

5. Consider expanding your neighborly sphere of influence. The Internet has opened and expanded opportunities to recognize neighbors around the world and to serve them. Be vigilant in serving distant neighbors. Support global missions or world hunger programs to meet their needs.

6. Define “neighbor” as liberally as possible. Strive to abandon stereotypes and to embrace the unfamiliar and weird. We cannot limit who we call “neighbor.” God’s love excludes no one.

Be aware, being a good neighbor can include actions other than sheer kindness. Focusing efforts regularly on defining yourself can help you become a better neighbor to others.