How to Neighbor

When we hear the word “neighbor,” we usually think of it as a noun—someone who lives next to us, on our street, or across the fence.

But in the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25–37, the lawyer asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” It was the wrong question. The better question is: “Who should I be a neighbor to?”

Although “neighbor” may imply proximity, the call is on us—to be the neighbor when we come into proximity with someone in need.

I’ve carried a conviction for a long time: any person in need who crosses my path that day is someone I am meant to be a neighbor to. That doesn’t mean I give more than what’s wise, and it doesn’t mean I withhold help because I judge how or why they got there.

This truth came into sharp focus today. On my way to church, I saw a man I recognized lying on the sidewalk beside his bike and a pile of belongings. I didn’t stop. Inside, I felt torn—should I be on time for church or stop to check on him? Passing by didn’t feel good.

As I drove, I had a quiet conversation with God: “If he’s still there on my way home, I promise to stop and check on him.” My wish was granted.

I pulled over. “I thought it was you, Nate! Nate the Great! Do you remember me?”

He lifted his head, weariness in his eyes. “Yes, I remember you. I don’t have any income anymore.”

“It’s going to be 100 degrees today,” I said. “You might want to go to the Cooling Center and get out of the heat.”

“That’s okay, I’m fine. I just want to go to heaven.”

He wouldn’t get up or go, but what I could do was sit there and talk with him. In that moment, the best gift I could offer was to remind him he was not invisible. Our conversation didn’t sound like, “You can’t stay here. Do you want a shelter? You’re keeping customers away.” It sounded like friendship. He needed to be heard.

Being a neighbor doesn’t always mean solving someone’s problems. Sometimes it begins with slowing down, seeing, listening—and choosing not to pass by.

How to be a neighbor

1. Be observant. If someone is in your view and in need on the street, do something. You can call the non-emergency police for a welfare check, offer water, point them to a cooling or warming shelter, and last but not least, you can pray.
2. Listen. Active listening is important. Practice asking questions.
   Many times, people need someone to talk to. Talking with someone can help process possible solutions.
3. Make the time. Incorporate daily a mindset of investing in others. Call. Visit. Invite people for dinner, a walk, or to ride along as you run errands.