On Being Neighborly

What a beautiful morning it is! The sun is shining, temperatures are in the 60s, and a gentle breeze is blowing. The trees are adorned with leaves in a variety of spring greens.

Thread 1
When walking, running, or biking in neighborhoods, you are sure to encounter some annoying driving habits. Everyone's in a rush, seldom watching for the unexpected. I appreciate those drivers who choose patience and concern for others, demonstrating kindness toward their neighbors.

Thread 2
Today, I noticed a man strolling through a nearby neighborhood. Our only connection was my wave. He wore a doctor's mask, which triggered memories of 2020 and the pandemic. I thought, "That mask isn't necessary outdoors!" My nicer self led me to consider reasons he might have for wearing one. Ultimately, I came to, "What's it to me?" He has his reasons, and I'm in no position to judge him or anyone else.

Thread 3
I recently saw a social media post about the angle of the sun and the risk of sunburn. The main takeaway is that the sun's intensity in April is comparable to that in August. Where I live, August feels different than April; August is hot and humid, while April is generally pleasant. Surely, the sunburn risk is greater in August than in April, right? No, it's the same. It may even be greater in April because I am still so pale, and the air feels deceptively cool. This highlights a possible disconnect between feelings and reality. Feelings are valid, but it’s essential to recognize and consider the truth.

Jesus teaches us to love our neighbor. In his kingdom, love is everything. We tend to define who our neighbor is based on feelings. But when someone asks Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?" the Master tells a story about a Samaritan man, an outcast who helps his enemy in extravagant ways.

As I operate on feelings,
Jesus reveals the truth.
That truth is up for my consideration.
What will a step of faith look like?