Be.Loved. 25 Simple Acts of Love to Change a LifeSample

DAY 19: Introduce yourself to someone who lives near you who you don’t know

“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.” – Romans 12:10

It’s human nature—we are drawn to others who are like us. We tend to hold to our cliques because of the safety and security they provide. Who, after all, doesn’t want to have close friends to journey life with, friends who just get us and with whom we share many moments of light-hearted fun without fear of judgment? 

But a 2016 Harris Poll showed that of 2,000 people questioned, 72% said they experience loneliness, and 1/3 of these said it happens weekly. As we assess our own relationships and consider those around us, are there people you notice who may benefit from having a friend? 

Do you know the feeling of loneliness? Maybe this can stir empathy in you and spur you on towards reaching others who may feel something similar? 

It may be difficult to know who around you is lonely, but every person was made to be loved and to discover the love God has for them. Every person longs to be known in a way that acknowledges their humanity.

Today, consider who in your neighborhood you don’t know yet. It might be someone you regularly see walking his or her dog or the person who lives three doors down that you have yet to meet.

Then, muster up the courage to walk across the street or down the hallway and engage them in conversation. Invite them to hang out with you at a later time either through a meal in your home or at a public place such as a local coffee shop, for example.

Reflect on how you felt doing this and what God did through this conversation. Consider how you might continue this relationship in the weeks to come.