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Expressing God's Love to Those Around YouSample

Expressing God's Love to Those Around You

DAY 1 OF 7

BEING NEIGHBORLY

Robert Frost wrote that “good fences make good neighbors.” It’s true. But so does “being neighborly.”

Last summer, my family and I took a trip in the used camper we’d bought the year before. Unfortunately, I was still unfamiliar with many of the camper’s hook-ups and settings, which led to a mini comedy of errors as soon as we arrived at the grounds. Right away, I popped open the side panel and wrestled to get the sewer hose connected. The problem was, I forgot the panel was open above me, and I bonked my head. When I stepped backward, I scraped my back along the bottom latch. And that’s when I stood up and hit my head again. When I looked up, I noticed several veteran campers were intently taking in the entire scene.

Given the spectacle I’d created, you’d think some of the more experienced campers nearby would have offered a helping hand. Instead, I was surprised by the distance they kept from me. They seemed almost offended by my inexperience. Over the course of the week, I did get to know some of the folks around us … after I took the initiative to say hello.

It reinforced in my mind the importance of “being neighborly” with the people God has placed in our path. Whether it’s a family moving into your neighborhood, a new co-worker learning the ropes, or just a bumbling camper next to you, we should take the first step, extend to them the love of Christ, and help them feel welcome.

For a daily dose of encouragement and perspective, check out Jim Daly’s blog, Daly Focus, at JimDalyBlog.com.

Scripture

Day 2

About this Plan

Expressing God's Love to Those Around You

There are people in need all around us. Some have encountered hard times and would benefit from a simple act of kindness. Others have faced unspeakable tragedy and yearn for a deeper touch from the Lord. In either case, God often expresses His grace through the love, compassion, and thoughtfulness of His people. That’s why becoming the hands and feet of Jesus is crucial to loving our neighbor as ourselves.

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We would like to thank Jim Daly for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: JimDalyBlog.com