The Neighbor Challenge

1. What inspired you to take the neighbor challenge and write about it?

CFA Executive Director, Jay Van Groningen, shared the story of a pastor who, after mapping out his neighborhood, realized he didn't know his neighbors. Our family has had the opportunity to live in several places, and in most of them I didn't know anyone beyond my next door neighbors. I felt very challenged that I had not been a good steward of the opportunities God had given me to minister where I had been planted. We had just purchased a house, so it seemed like a natural time to begin this process in earnest.

2. What was the most difficult part of the challenge?

The most difficult part of the challenge was the action of it: introducing myself, walking across the street, enduring awkward moments...making excuses is a lot easier.

3. What did you learn that surprised you?

It was surprising to me that I felt so unsure about approaching people, and because I felt so uncertain I was always surprised at how well people received me.

4. What experience are you most glad that you had?

Our street is a thoroughfare for many young people because of its proximity to a teen center. I love saying "hi" to the kids as they pass, and having a conversation if I get the chance.

5. Why is it so difficult to get out there and meet our neighbors?

All of the excuses that I have used for not meeting my neighbors have been about me, my discomfort, my time, etc. Meeting neighbors isn't difficult. It's not even that time consuming. I think I had bought into the notion that people don't want to be bothered, and the truth is that the majority of people desire to connect with their neighbors on some level.

6. What do you think would happen if more Christians took this challenge?

The original author of this challenge was Christ. He said, "Love your neighbor." Now, we can stretch that out to include a lot of people, but I don't think there's any way to shrink it...He says neighbor. So, for all of us who follow Christ this is not a challenge...it's a mandate. I have been disobedient in this area, so I'm removing the log from my own eye as we speak. Be encouraged! How exciting to think that as we meet our neighbors, share our stories, and learn about each others' gifts we are playing a role in spreading the gospel and are a part of God's redemptive work here on Earth!