Thursday, February 20, 2020
You need Christians in your neighborhood
Christians are not always popular or well liked in culture. We feel strongly about living the Jesus way and that puts at odds with our surroundings. Always has. Always will. We are accused of being unloving, judgmental, hateful, and hypocritical.
But to all the non-believers in our communities, you want -- you need -- Christians in your neighborhood. And here are a few reasons why.
We are going to love our neighbors. We want to share Jesus. We believe that there is a lifestyle that Jesus expects. We are not perfect. But the second greatest command in our faith is to love our neighbors just as we do ourselves.
So even if you are not a Christian, we are there for you.
Sick? We're the ones mowing your yard, bringing over a meal, taking you to the hospital.
Out of work? We will buy groceries, help with the bills, even get you a job if we can.
Down on your luck? We will loan you our car, share our clothes, and treat you with respect.
We'll help watch your kids. Need a place to stay while your house is being fixed after the storm? We will let you have a room.
You may not believe it helps, but we will pray for you. And expect God to answer.
We are the home in your neighborhood that does not think your worth is based on race or economic status.
You may not agree with our convictions on many issues, but we will be there.
So next time you are in trouble, here is my advice...
When we show up, let us help. If we do not get there first, ask us. We will respond.
Just know we will do this because of the one we follow. We will give God the credit. And we will not be shy about sharing our faith.
Even if you don't listen. And we will still help even if you don't believe.
Because Jesus matters. So do you.
I hope someday you will join us.
But to all the non-believers in our communities, you want -- you need -- Christians in your neighborhood. And here are a few reasons why.
We are going to love our neighbors. We want to share Jesus. We believe that there is a lifestyle that Jesus expects. We are not perfect. But the second greatest command in our faith is to love our neighbors just as we do ourselves.
So even if you are not a Christian, we are there for you.
Sick? We're the ones mowing your yard, bringing over a meal, taking you to the hospital.
Out of work? We will buy groceries, help with the bills, even get you a job if we can.
Down on your luck? We will loan you our car, share our clothes, and treat you with respect.
We'll help watch your kids. Need a place to stay while your house is being fixed after the storm? We will let you have a room.
You may not believe it helps, but we will pray for you. And expect God to answer.
We are the home in your neighborhood that does not think your worth is based on race or economic status.
You may not agree with our convictions on many issues, but we will be there.
So next time you are in trouble, here is my advice...
When we show up, let us help. If we do not get there first, ask us. We will respond.
Just know we will do this because of the one we follow. We will give God the credit. And we will not be shy about sharing our faith.
Even if you don't listen. And we will still help even if you don't believe.
Because Jesus matters. So do you.
I hope someday you will join us.
