Being at the Justice Conference has opened up thoughts and conversations about what it means to love our neighbor. One thing I recognize I lack is that I know what it means to do right, however the action to follow through falls short so often. We all know what needs to be done. But what stops us? Christ himself says that the harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few. 

 

I am passionate about bringing and sharing the gospel to those who have not yet received it. I recognize the needs in my community and the needs within even friends, family members, and yes, even those in our own congregation. Engaging in the ACT of loving your neighbor takes more than just time and money sometimes. It takes commitment to love them; to be relational. It takes more than serving them, it requires a trust to build such a relationship, and to meet them where they are at. It requires getting uncomfortable, engaging in conversations about things that put us in awkward positions. It takes empathy, grace, and a listening ear. To be a Christian means to be an activist. To be a Christian requires justice. Justice is not simply the absence of violence or turmoil, but the perpetual action of love. So I encourage you, how will you get involved in loving your neighbor?

 

Sometimes it can be as simple as praying for/with your literal neighbor. It will require effort, but anything special requires that. So, let's engage in His kingdom work, building relationships and conversations; getting involved in the actions of love that Christ has already set an example for us to follow. I hope you are feeling encouraged that you can make a huge difference by loving your neighbor.