A Dozen Ways to Love Your Neighbor: Autumn Edition

 

“One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked Him, ‘Which is the first of all the commandments?’ Jesus replied, ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no greater commandment than these.’” –Mark 12:28-31

A DOZEN WAYS TO LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR: AUTUMN EDITION

Below are some simple suggestions. I’m sure you’ve done many of them already and could add your own ideas based on your particular circumstances. If you’re looking for organizations that need volunteers, a good place to start might be to google ‘volunteer opportunities near me.’ Even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference for someone else!

As you switch out the seasonal clothes in your closet, pick out a few nice items you haven’t worn in a while and donate them to a local charity.

If you ever have unopened food in your fridge or pantry that you know you won’t use by the ‘use by’ date, offer it to your neighbors or a soup kitchen.

When buying school supplies for your child, purchase something extra and take it to the school office for any child who may need it, or purchase a gift card for your child’s teacher.

Rake the leaves for an elderly neighbor.

Surprise a friend you haven’t seen in a long time with a phone call, text, or email, or mail them a Thanksgiving greeting card.

Obey speed limits in school zones; stop for school busses when their lights are flashing.

Send your child’s teacher a note of appreciation mid-semester; include a gift card to a local small business or a homemade treat.

Offer to volunteer at your child’s school.

If you like to knit or crochet, you may want to make hats for newborns or scarves for veterans. Contact your local hospital or the VA to find out what they can use.

Purchase a gift card to a local small-business bakery and take it to the fire station.

Donate hats, gloves, or socks to a school or shelter; include a bag of Halloween candy.

If you know of a college student who can’t travel home for Thanksgiving, or anyone else who will be alone on the holiday, invite them to join you for dinner.

 “Lord, help me look for ways to love my neighbor.”

If you like reading my reflections, please leave a comment and share them with your friends by clicking on one of the icons below. Thanks!