What Does It Mean to Love Your Neighbor?

When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He gave a twofold answer: love God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. But who is our neighbor?

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus expanded the definition far beyond what His listeners expected. Our neighbor is not just the person who looks like us, thinks like us, or lives near us. Our neighbor is anyone in need whom we have the capacity to help.

A Love That Acts

Biblical love is not merely a feeling — it is an action. It is the choice to move toward another person in their need, even when it costs us something. The Samaritan didn't just feel pity; he acted. He bound up the wounds, provided lodging, and promised to return.

"By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." — John 13:35

As we seek to live out this calling in Lakeland, let us look for the neighbors God has placed in our path — and let us love them with the same grace we have received.