My last post (also with a ‘river’ of flowers) started a conversation about ideas and ways to interact with neighbors during the summer months.
- Practice the Ministry of Presence. —see previous post
- Create Opportunities to be Present. —see previous post
- Invite. —see previous post
- Serve and Sacrifice for Them. —see previous post
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Use your holidays. You are off. They are off. Try to bring your neighbors together. The culture creates a number of opportunities for us. 4th of July, New Years fireworks. Labor Day, Veterans Day, Presidents Day. Find a way to use these holidays for the advancement of the Gospel (Philippians 1:12). Could you invite them to something?
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Could you host something?
Could you help with something?
Could you serve them in some way so that they could enjoy these holidays? (For example, a couple without children might sit the neighbors youngest children so mom and dad can have a much needed date? Or, agree to watch the house and take care of the neighbor’s dog so the family can get away for an extended weekend.)
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Attend the events in your community and neighborhood that bring people together. Examples? In our community there is a VERY active homeowners committee that loves to organize social activities. Fourth of July–there is a community activity. Christmas, same thing. Holloween, the neighborhood is transformed into a 10 year-old child-with-a sugar craving fantasy. The point is, “showing up” is a great way to build relationships and do some homework on who your neighbors are. Think of ways that you can use the holidays.
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Throw a Party. Could you have a Summer pool party for your five closest neighbors? Could you have a Summer-ending party? How about a Baseball Playoff Party? “I never heard of such a thing,” you might say. Good, then it will have its own uniqueness to it to attract people in your neighborhood bringing your sports-loving friends together. Remember, there is no impact without contact. Be creative.
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