June 3rd, 2024
Who is my Neighbor?
One of my favorite authors, C.S. Lewis, is well-known for his Narnia series. But beyond that magical world, he penned a profound book called The Weight of Glory. In it, he writes, "You have never talked to a mere mortal." This powerful statement speaks to the divine potential in every person.
Lewis reminds us that every individual we encounter carries the essence of the Creator. They are crafted in the image of God, not as gods themselves, but as beings with inherent majesty and purpose. Each human interaction is more than a random encounter; it's a divine appointment. The apostle Paul even suggests that sometimes, we might be entertaining angels without knowing it.
Think about it. Every person, regardless of their background, skin color, or life story, has a unique DNA. We often overlook the beauty in these encounters, categorizing people based on their worthiness of our time and energy. But every human being is a reflection of God’s intentional and loving creation.
This idea hit home during my first silent retreat at a monastery in Kentucky. One evening, I listened to a monk share his story. Growing up poor in the Philippines, he stole $22,000 that his father had painstakingly saved. This act of theft deeply affected his family, especially his mother. It was a powerful reminder of the impact our actions have on others, and the importance of acknowledging and thanking those who invest in our lives.
Reflecting on this, I realized that we often miss the opportunity to be truly compassionate neighbors. We tend to ask, "Who is my neighbor?" instead of, "How can I be a neighbor?" Jesus reframed this question in the parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan helped a Jewish man in need, despite deep-seated enmity between their people. He saw the man as a fellow human, not defined by race or religion, but by his immediate need.
In our daily lives, we might encounter people in difficult situations. We might feel uncomfortable and look away, hoping someone else will help. Yet, it's through these moments that our true compassion is tested. It's not about instant gratification or seeing immediate results from our actions. It's about consistent, compassionate ministry, day after day, year after year.
A pastor I met in Costa Rica exemplified this. He spent nights on the streets with the homeless, creating a safe and clean space for them. His actions showed that true compassion involves risk, effort, and a willingness to meet people where they are, regardless of their circumstances.
We are called to live out the gospel by loving our neighbors as ourselves. This means every encounter is an opportunity to show compassion, to see the divine potential in others, and to act with kindness and love. Let’s not just fill seats in our churches, but fill needs in our communities. In doing so, we truly embody the message of Christ.
As you go about your day, remember that each person you meet is more than just a passerby. They are a divine creation, worthy of your time and compassion. Let’s strive to be neighbors in the fullest sense, showing love and kindness to all we encounter.
May we respond to this call with open hearts and hands. Amen.
Lewis reminds us that every individual we encounter carries the essence of the Creator. They are crafted in the image of God, not as gods themselves, but as beings with inherent majesty and purpose. Each human interaction is more than a random encounter; it's a divine appointment. The apostle Paul even suggests that sometimes, we might be entertaining angels without knowing it.
Think about it. Every person, regardless of their background, skin color, or life story, has a unique DNA. We often overlook the beauty in these encounters, categorizing people based on their worthiness of our time and energy. But every human being is a reflection of God’s intentional and loving creation.
This idea hit home during my first silent retreat at a monastery in Kentucky. One evening, I listened to a monk share his story. Growing up poor in the Philippines, he stole $22,000 that his father had painstakingly saved. This act of theft deeply affected his family, especially his mother. It was a powerful reminder of the impact our actions have on others, and the importance of acknowledging and thanking those who invest in our lives.
Reflecting on this, I realized that we often miss the opportunity to be truly compassionate neighbors. We tend to ask, "Who is my neighbor?" instead of, "How can I be a neighbor?" Jesus reframed this question in the parable of the Good Samaritan. The Samaritan helped a Jewish man in need, despite deep-seated enmity between their people. He saw the man as a fellow human, not defined by race or religion, but by his immediate need.
In our daily lives, we might encounter people in difficult situations. We might feel uncomfortable and look away, hoping someone else will help. Yet, it's through these moments that our true compassion is tested. It's not about instant gratification or seeing immediate results from our actions. It's about consistent, compassionate ministry, day after day, year after year.
A pastor I met in Costa Rica exemplified this. He spent nights on the streets with the homeless, creating a safe and clean space for them. His actions showed that true compassion involves risk, effort, and a willingness to meet people where they are, regardless of their circumstances.
We are called to live out the gospel by loving our neighbors as ourselves. This means every encounter is an opportunity to show compassion, to see the divine potential in others, and to act with kindness and love. Let’s not just fill seats in our churches, but fill needs in our communities. In doing so, we truly embody the message of Christ.
As you go about your day, remember that each person you meet is more than just a passerby. They are a divine creation, worthy of your time and compassion. Let’s strive to be neighbors in the fullest sense, showing love and kindness to all we encounter.
May we respond to this call with open hearts and hands. Amen.
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