We Are Neighbors

I recently read an article about Cultural Christianity versus Biblical Christianity when it hit me: there is also cultural neighboring and Biblical neighboring.  The definition of what it means to be a good neighbor has been changing over the past several decades. In the past, being “neighborly” was defined by knowing your neighbors personally and introducing yourself to new neighbors. In the 1950s, neighborliness was characterized by the understanding that one could rely on a neighbor in times of need and enjoy their company socially. Similar studies done since 2016 have found a change in what it means to be a good neighbor. What most Americans expect from a neighbor now is someone who is quiet and will leave them alone! In 2022, a “good neighbor” culturally is based less on connection and more on etiquette. I would say that most people think a good neighbor now is the one who takes the trash out properly, keeps the music down at night, and waves hello from a distance. Honestly, t...

Nearly every idea about neighboring can be intimidating to introverts. Psychologist Carl Jung described the personality extremes of Introvert and Extrovert back in the 1920s. His basic definition said that introverts prefer minimally stimulating environments, and they need time alone to recharge. Extroverts generally refuel by being with others and have no problem meeting someone new. If you are an introvert, the thought of getting to know strangers (even if they live next door) is right up there with going to the dentist and filling in tax forms. But what if I were to tell you that connecting with your neighbors need not be a guilty burden? Consider some of these introvert-friendly neighboring ideas. Read a good book about neighboring to get you inspired. Let me recommend these books: “The Art of Neighboring,” “Next Door as it is in Heaven,” “The Abundant Community,” “How to Love Your Neighbor Without Being Weird,” or “This is Where You Belong.” Make yourself available by ...

Chris and Elizabeth's McKinney's new book, "Placed for a Purpose," challenges us to create margin in our lives so we can interact with our neighbors, just like Jesus did. I've met and visited with Chris several times and he has practical examples that this couple has put into practice and that they write about in their book. For them it started with the realization that the address of the residence might not be an accident. If they were to use their home as a place of engagement instead of a place of refuge, what would that look like for them and their children? For the McKinney's it began with a fish fry. But soon it became an Easter egg hunt with her immediate neighbors, and Halloween activities in their neighborhood, and other creative ways to build relationship with those that live around them. Their book contains some great and insightful ideas. I especially like the fact that they say neighboring is like a lot crockpot, low and slow, not a microw...

Acts of neighborliness are often simple gestures that help us be a good neighbor, lift up others, or make our community a place we love. I invite you celebrate this special time of year with a gesture of neighboring friendship and support aimed at the families living behind the eight closets front doors to you. This is a seasonal list of ideas that have been used by individuals in the #engagedneighbor network.   Set up an outdoor picture-taking event for kids. Bring out a fire pit in your front yard to roast marshmallows or make s'mores.   Find a tree or evergreen in the neighborhood that could be a joint decorating event - complete with hot chocolate and music Invite your neighbors over for a holiday open house or Christmas tea. Mail or leave at the door a surprise affirmation note to neighbors. Use the element of surprise with a gift or act of service that would bless your neighbors. Make a double batch of the cookies you’re baking and bring some to ...