I'm not a naturally hospitable person. I like to be alone. I don't like inviting extra work. But the Lord has been showing me in quite overt ways that I need to fix my attitude in this area.
Our neighbors one building down have one son, who is Levi's age. From what I can tell, they don't have many/any friends, and they are a bit... strange. The dad, who is really nice (and talkative), has a long beard and long hair and at one point had his truck covered in at least 100 bumper stickers (he took many off; there are probably a dozen now). The mom is a high school teacher, and she is just kind of weird. She says whatever is on her mind--often something rude. She walks onto our front patio and even into our house uninvited and lets her son do the same. Whenever she sees that the kids and I have come out to go on a walk, get the mail, or ride bikes, they come out too. I have a very hard time liking this woman and find myself ducking my head or hurrying inside to avoid her.
But the thing is... I know she is just lonely. I know she is not a believer. I know how I should act toward her--but I just don't want to. That is my fault.
This post hits the nail on the head. God is pointedly showing me someone who needs love and attention--things that I can give. I really don't want to give them, but that is no excuse!
Writing all of this out is a way to hold myself accountable: now I have to be intentional toward this girl. First on the list: inviting them to dinner. I'll let you know how it goes.
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3 comments:
So impressed with you, friend. I'll keep this in my prayers and try to stop letting my annoyance show through when you share about this neighbor :0)
What a wonderful post!! I hope she turns out to be a friend. The husband sounds a bit queer! Good luck. L&K N
Very convicting post and SUCH a good reminder for me right now! I have a couple people in my life, like you, who I don't really LOVE interacting with, yet I know God has put them in my life for a reason. It's so hard to love others sometimes, especially when we feel we just cannot possibly give any more emotional energy to anyone. But, like you said, with this neighbor, it's just a matter of giving time and attention, even in short bursts like when you go get the mail. Thanks for your honesty. xoxo
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