Loving Your Neighbor

We’ve all heard the familiar verse, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” However, what does this look like in real life?

For some, it means passing a stranger on the street and greeting them warmly. For others, it means donating their time and talents assisting those in need. It can be easy to see why it’s important to show others God’s love, especially since we know how wonderful it feels to be shown that love in return.

However, it’s not always easy to love everyone around us. And that’s how Jesus defines our “neighbors”: every single person you pass by, sit near in class, work alongside, or read about in the news.

One of the first things you’ll see when you open the Bible is the passage about God creating humankind.

So God created mankind in his own image,

    in the image of God he created them.

Genesis 1:27

We are created in God’s image.

Let that sink in for a moment. You don’t have to do anything to be “enough” for this great honor. Yet somehow, God chose you to reflect His perfect qualities and experience His infinite love.

But you are not the only one who is made in God’s image. Just as you should view yourself as God’s perfect creation, a reflection of God’s character, take a look around you at your community. Every single one of them, regardless of their past, their mistakes, their differences…they are made in God’s image too.

So when you extend to them God’s love and mercy, you are essentially giving back to God what He gave to you. Even if that person never thanks you, you can know that you will always do the right thing when you display God’s loving kindness.

Sometimes, going the extra mile feels like too much. And if it’s draining you completely, then you do need to take time for rest. But the small things matter too. Saying a simple “hello” or reaching out with a caring message might change someone’s entire day.

If you are still hesitant to do something for someone else, ask yourself why. Does it feel like too much of a burden? Does this person not “deserve” your time?

Maybe they don’t. But you know who does deserve your time? God. He’s the One who gave you all the time you have! And each time you treat someone the way God would treat them, you are showing God that you are making the most of the gifts He’s given you. You are telling God that you love Him, even if that love can’t compare to how much He loves you.

Today, think of a way (it doesn’t have to be big!) to show others God’s love. Who knows? Perhaps you might even make a lasting connection.

 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.

Romans 13:8

Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

Romans 13:10

Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

1 John 4:7-8