Developing a habit is language you may be familiar with. It’s in all the books now-a-days. However, Jesus followers have referred to following Jesus as “practices.” We practice the words and ways of Jesus in order to experience the love of God, and share that love with others. Below are some resources to help you do that. Be sure to look at the practice as a practical way for you to invest in the unconvinced.
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The Art of Neighboring: Building Genuine Relationships Right Outside Your Door by Jay Pathak and Dave Runyon
To the Table by Lisa Graham Mcminn
The Doubters' Club: Good-Faith Conversations with Skeptics, Atheists, and the Spiritually Wounded by Preston Ulmer
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#32 Where the Gospel Meets Evangelism - Love Thy Neighborhood
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The video series “Middle Ground” highlights the differences between the way we all think and the need to have discussion and find middle ground. Here is a good one to start with:
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Welcoming Others Into the Fold
Just as Jesus mentions being the gate for the sheep, consider how you can help create inviting and welcoming communities. This can involve outreach, hospitality, or being a supportive presence for those seeking spiritual guidance. Volunteer or engage in acts of kindness that reflect Christ’s love and openness.
OUTREACH
Consider putting yourself in an environment where the attention is on helping those in need. This usually involves going and serving for a determined amount of time on behalf of the poor or any group that is marginalized.
HOSPITALITY
Whether you live in a home, condo, or apartment, what would it look like for you to open your living space up to those outside of your family? Hospitality usually involves some food. As you bring people to the table, remember the voice of Jesus saying, “I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice” (John 10:16).
SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE
We live in a drive-thru world. Everything is on the go and moving at an unsustainable pace. Offering others spiritual guidance helps their soul catch up with their body. To do this, give them undivided attention and listen to what they are going through.
Don’t try to fix things, just be an anchor of peace by listening and feeling with them in their situation. The goal here is to let them know you aren’t going to leave them; you are willing to suffer alongside them, and you and God delight in them.