I Used to Talk to Everyone About God…What Changed?
When I moved to Orlando almost five years ago, I knew no one. And I was ok with this. Honestly. I was newly married, and having moved halfway across the nation, I was content to settle into my new home, creating memories with my beloved. Time passed and I became increasingly aware of my attitude of complacency. I was unwilling to reach out to others around me. I didn’t want to make the extra effort. My excuse was always: “I’m too tired and besides, people don’t care about community anymore”.
If you had seen me, in suburban Indiana, in 1987, you would have found quite a different scene. Nine-year-old Sarah was the neighborhood socialite…and evangelist. I knew almost everyone on my street and can still remember their names. There was Matthew and his annoying brother next door, Lauren, the redhead, who was always available to play, and many others. I could be found organizing theatrical and musical productions with these kids daily. Why? Because I was full of zeal for those in my neighborhood. I loved to start spiritual conversations with people because I knew God was there and He wanted to use me to reach others with His truth. I loved my neighbors!
Just recently I was reminded of my nine-year-old faith. The Lord convicted my heart and gently reminded me that people DO still desire community and connection. God still desires to use me in the lives of my neighbors and there are people who I need to get out and initiate with. So, I prayed “Lord I see how wrong I’ve been with my complacent attitude. Please help me as I desire to step out in faith and zeal once again in the neighborhood you’ve (strategically) placed me in. Lead me to those you want me to love.”
The next week my husband and I were walking, and we met a girl from Kenya. We talked to her about her culture and her kids as they laughed while petting our two dogs. She seemed warm. I was pleasantly surprised. The next week I waved at the Chinese neighbor two doors down…the one who seems very distant and unfriendly. And she waved back. The next month, my son and I baked cookies and took them to my Haitian neighbors even though they were afraid to answer the door. Things were moving. And it wasn’t me. It was the Lord. Months later I have a desire to meet new people and learn about their spiritual journeys. I recently met a new mom from Colombia and her sweet daughter as she was visiting her mother who lives in our cul-de-sac. We connected about a recent experience she had at a local church. I was astounded by her receptivity!
And so little Sarah learned that faith and zeal can be reclaimed. Jesus can give you the motivation you need to pursue your neighbors with zeal and fierce love, even after a season of dormancy. Even in a place where it seems no one is interested in a conversation or relationship. All it takes is the faith of a child.
If you would like further resources to pray for your neighbors, start here.
