Our society’s view of what it looks like to neighbor well is distorted and watered down at best. The act of pulling a neighbor’s garbage cans to the curb while they’re on vacation is seen as incredibly generous. Inviting a neighbor over for dinner is considered an act of exceptional hospitality. We see a very different picture of neighboring in Mark 12 – the greatest commandment Jesus gave was not to simply smile and wave as you pull in your garage, but to “Love your neighbor as yourself,” (Mark 12:29-31). But what does that look like on a daily basis? What does that look like in a culture where neighboring is not readily practiced? How can we begin to live out the command to love others as God loves us?

Questions for Discussion:

1. How would you define your neighbors? Not just who they are but what they are like? Have you had chances to interact?
2. What are your typical interactions with your neighbors like? How long do they last? What do you talk about?
3. What are some ways that you can position yourself to be intentionally available to your neighbors this week?

Week 3: Be Present
This week, let’s focus on developing a habit of presence in and among our neighborhoods. You can jump start this habit by taking a prayer walk around your neighborhood, or other designated spot, and asking God for specific opportunities to be available to the people God has placed around you. Walk to the places you would normally visit in your daily routine – the park, the library, a nearby store, etc. As you go, pray that God would grant you opportunities to interact with others in the days ahead. Be sure to stop and say hello to anyone you may encounter!