When we think about a neighbor, we automatically think about someone who lives nearby.
This is true, but not always the case.
A neighbor can be someone we have never met and is situated next to or very near us.
They can be someone we meet at a social event or because of our employment.
In the kingdom, everyone is our neighbor and should be treated with the same love and respect we all desire.
This is one of the great commands of the law.
Jesus desired that we all knew what this was and what it meant.
He gave us a prime example in Luke 10: 25-37.
Jesus told the parable of the good Samaritan to teach that our love for our neighbors shouldn’t be limited or have barriers.
He showed how the man from Samaria freely gave to a wounded stranger, even though the man was a Jew. Someone his people of whom they were at odds with.
He did not take this in consideration, but only knew that he needed to do what was right.
To treat this man the way he would want to be treated.
That is what the Lord wants all of us to do.
When asked why we are to be so loving towards others, simply reply: “Jesus has told us that we are to love our neighbors as ourselves and there is no greater commandment than this.”
Those who sincerely desire to be taught their duty, Christ will guide in judgment, and teach His way.
Take the time to ask yourself: How might the Lord be urging me to expand the borders of my “neighborhood?”
The Lord will give you an answer and when He does, step out in faith and do it.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Lord, help us to look beyond any borders or barriers we have in our lives regarding those we meet. Let us see everyone as our neighbor and to love in a generous way. You know how we should handle each situation.
In Jesus Name We Pray, Amen