The Art of Neighbouringናሙና

 Love is a Verb

We can claim to love but if we do not act on it, it is futile. Jesus’s love for humanity brought about action on His part, and in the same way, our love for others is to be followed by action. The word ‘love’ is used in the form of a verb, i.e. a word that is used to describe an action or occurrence.

1 John 3:18 states that we need to love with action and in truth, therefore, going beyond our speech and words. Just because we say we love someone does not show that we love them. Our actions, if fueled by love, truly express that love. 

Where there are churches or believers who love God and love people, there should be evidence of communities being changed and impacted. Believers need to not only talk the talk but also walk the walk, affecting those around them for the good. 

Our nation should continually be changing for the positive as individuals and churches grow in becoming more Christlike. There should be a ripple effect where our communities are changed by the outpouring of loving acts by Christ followers. Let us be a community of people who are deemed as the most loving, kind, and compassionate. 

The Bible is full of examples of practical demonstrations of love, from serving others, being generous (of not only our finances but also our energy and time), visiting and praying for the sick, helping others where they have need, befriending those who are lonely, caring for both young and old, standing up for the oppressed, and leading people to fulfilment in God and God alone. 

Take some time to think of acts of love that resulted in you being drawn to the Kingdom of God. Did someone take time out to love you? Have you received a word of encouragement just when it was needed or were you befriended when at your most lonely? Maybe you are God’s answer to the cries of someone’s heart. Take some time to partner with God in loving the community you find yourself planted in. Take the time to heed the nudging of the Spirit if you notice someone who looks sad or lonely. Look at your neighbors with the eyes and heart of God.