Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Remember Mr. Rogers? I know, I am dating myself. He was such a friendly guy. He always wore such nice cardigan sweaters and was so good at tossing his loafers from one hand to the other while changing into his sneakers for the show. I am not sure why that couldn't be done off camera. His shoes never had an impact on the show...Anywho, Mr. Rogers was one of the friendliest people I ever saw on TV. He loved everyone and always treated others well. I do not encounter a lot of people today that share that gift.

I think it is because we find ourselves caught up in our own little worlds, our own struggles, and we often forget to care about others much less share a heartfelt greeting. I am so guilty of this. Who has time to worry about other people? HELLO! Have you taken notice of all the things going on in my life? Cut me some slack. Wow. Seems pretty selfish. As I am studying through Romans, this is an (Just one of many) area that I am really being pressed to look at in my life. We have to keep in perspective what our purpose is on Earth. It is not to create wealth, it is not to amass material possessions, it is not to lavish ourselves with luxury. We are here to bring honor and glory to Jesus Christ and to tell others about Him. The bible tells us that the greatest commandment is to love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. Jesus goes on to say that the next greatest commandment is similar, love your neighbor as yourself. (Mark 12:29-31)


Will you take some time this week to pray about how you can love your neighbor. This does not literally mean the people who live next door, (Although they are included). It means to love all of those you encounter. People at work, at school, at Wal-Mart, etc. See, Jesus loves them and you and me so much, He died for us. Don't you want others to know the great joy that comes from knowing Him? In the passage below from Romans, Paul makes it clear that he understood this principle.

Romans 15:4-7
4For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,6that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.

Waiting on Him,
ML