“Hidey Ho, Neighbour.” You may remember hearing this friendly welcome from Wilson living next-door to Tim Taylor on the popular 1990s’ TV series Home Improvement. If you do remember (or need some television education), Tim would be out in his backyard dealing with the latest “dilemma” to befall he and his family, and Wilson would always acknowledge him with this rousing greeting, peering eyes high over the fence. Wilson would typically have a timely word of wisdom and encouragement. In the Bible, Jesus also knew the place and value of neighbourly friendships as he taught his generation: “The two greatest commandments are to love God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength, followed by loving your neighbour as yourself,” as found in the gospel of Mark chapter 12, verse 31.
But who is included as my neighbour nowadays? With Jesus, neighbours were usually considered people in your village or town whom would see on a regular basis. Today, neighbour can still carry the same idea, as we should share the love of Christ with those in our immediate neighborhood. But with the advantages now of social media, our neighbours can be from different races and cultures. In Jesus’ eyes, a neighbour is every living, breathing human God created and Jesus died for. The real question is how can you love your neighbour? Here are two ways to love your neighbour (for Valentine’s Day coming soon!)
Say “Hello,” including a smile and eye contact with your neighbour, a co-worker, the cashier — anyone. I caught a cashier a little off-guard last week when I thanked her for her good service. She seemed pleasantly surprised and pleased. Continue the conversation with someone you are acquainted with past “Hello” by asking how they are (really). This may presuppose that you know a little more about them and what they are currently dealing with. Be ready to listen as they open up and share.
Here in Cornwall, we appreciate and support a local ministry: The Agape Centre. Most people are likely not aware that their name reflects a word uniquely found in the Bible for love. While we have only a single term in English, the language of the New Testament in the Bible uses at least three different terms for three different kinds and levels of love. Agape (ah-gaw-pay) is the highest, most noble form of love. This is God’s love. It is committed, faithful and self sacrificing. That’s remarkable. Jesus, who spoke often of this kind of love, told us that we are to love our neighbours as ourselves, as if God was loving them through us. God calls us to reach out to those whom others may be ignoring.
Take a moment to greet others with a smile, a kind word, even a small treat to let them know that they are noticed. Yes, you can be that caring “attentive” neighbour who never lets anyone forget that you love God and others.
L’article How you can love your neighbour est apparu en premier sur Cornwall Seaway News.
