Rediscovering the Art of Neighboring: What It Really Means to Love the People Around Us
Jesus taught us to love our neighbor as ourselves. Most of us agree with that command, but living it out in a practical and consistent way is much harder. In our modern routines, it is easy to drive into the garage, close the door, and move through life with very little awareness of the people living closest to us.
Scripture gives a broad definition of neighbor, but it certainly includes the people on our street. So the question becomes, what would it look like to intentionally love the people God has placed around us?
A Fresh Look at the Good Samaritan
The parable of the Good Samaritan is more than a moral example. It is a direct challenge to the way we decide who is worthy of our attention. In Jesus’ day, Jews and Samaritans lived with deep hostility toward one another. When Jesus made a Samaritan the hero of the story, His listeners would have felt the shock immediately.
In the story, a man is beaten and left for dead. Several religious leaders walk past him without stopping. Then a Samaritan sees the man’s condition and responds with compassion. He cares for the man’s wounds, pays for his lodging, and ensures that he receives ongoing help. The Samaritan had nothing to gain, yet he acted with mercy, generosity, and true neighborly love.
Jesus makes the point clear. Loving your neighbor means moving toward people who are hurting, even when there is no benefit or convenience for you.
Why Neighboring Feels Difficult Today
We live closer to people than ever, but often know very little about them. Christians sometimes talk about loving everyone, but in practice this can result in loving no one in particular. Deep relationships require intentionality, and intentionality takes time.
You may not be able to develop meaningful relationships with every person in your life, but you can take simple steps that open doors for genuine connection and gospel influence.
Through the years I have practiced a few habits that have helped me build stronger relationships with my neighbors. These small steps have made a significant difference, and they can do the same for you.
Four Practical Ways to Love Your Neighbors Well
1. Map out the people around you
Draw a simple map of your immediate neighborhood. Write down the names and details of the people you know. This will reveal who you still need to meet and will also give you a practical way to pray for those around you.
2. Learn and use people’s names
Names matter. After meeting someone, write down their name and one detail to help you remember them. Keep the list where you will see it. Using someone’s name is one of the easiest ways to show care and respect, and it helps create natural connections.
3. Spend more time where interactions naturally happen
Most neighbor interactions happen in front yards, driveways, sidewalks, shared apartment spaces, or anywhere that you are visible. Look for reasons to be present in those areas. Simple activities like washing the car, taking a walk, or sitting on the porch create opportunities for natural conversations.
4. Create margin in your schedule
Loving your neighbors takes time. If your schedule is packed, you will walk past people without noticing them. Learn to say no to certain commitments so you can slow down and be more aware of the needs and opportunities around you. Presence is a form of ministry.
Why Neighboring Matters for the Gospel
Neighboring is not just an act of kindness. It is an expression of Christian discipleship. You can love people without loving God, but you cannot love God without loving people. These two realities are linked.
The most meaningful way to love your neighbors is to introduce them to Jesus. God placed you where you are for a reason. Your street, your building, your workplace, and your relationships are not accidents. You carry influence that no one else has.
So pay attention to the moments when you cross paths with the people around you. A small conversation can lead to a deep friendship. A simple invitation can open the door to faith. Every interaction matters.
A Final Question
Will you be the one God uses to help someone find life in Christ? Only you can decide that, and your neighborhood is waiting.
