THE GOOD NEIGHBOR

Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) wrote,

“Christ says: “Which of these three, do you think, proved to be the neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” The Pharisee answers correctly, “The one who showed mercy to him” (Luke. 10:36). This means that by doing your duty you easily discover who your neighbor is…He towards whom I have a duty is my neighbor, and when I fulfill my duty, I prove that I am a neighbor. Christ does not speak about recognizing our neighbor but about being a neighbor yourself, about proving yourself to be a neighbor, something the Samaritan showed by his compassion. Choosing a lover, finding a friend, yes that is a long, hard job, but your neighbor is easy to recognize, easy to find – if you yourself will only recognize your duty and be a neighbor.”

Being a good neighbor is probably the most believable way we have of sharing the gospel. The above line from this quote has been a meditation for me: “Christ does not speak about recognizing our neighbor but about being a neighbor yourself, about proving yourself to be a neighbor.” It’s time for the gospel to get neighborly. This is the time to be a neighbor.

It is very interesting since living in close proximity here in the Trailer Park, where neighbors are stacked up side-by-side, row-by-row in all directions, just how many we know and know what’s going on in their lives. It is also plain to see how easy it is to be neighborly to some and not so much to others.

Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.” Jesus