Fearless Living with our Neighbor is the focus this week, based on the stories of Rahab (Joshua 2:1-16) and the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). These two Biblical texts form the backdrop of our understanding of what it means to be "a neighbor" in our world today. In these accounts from the Old and New Testaments, both Rahab and the Good Samaritan show daring hospitality in unexpected moments. For both of them, this moment defined their lives and their faith. They both faced danger as a consequence of deciding to show hospitality, but both chose to live a life of both generosity and hospitality, rather than to sit on the sidelines and do nothing.

In so many ways, our world is coming closer and closer together, yet at the same time people seem to be drifting farther and farther apart. New neighborhoods are built, but neighbors who live right next together, in condominiums and town houses, never meet each other. They remain strangers. Differences between people unfortunately become magnified. Fears of new people are amplified. The spiritual gift of hospitality and welcoming along with Jesus' call to love and serve our neighbors becomes a very daring thing to attempt. The reality is that people are in desperate need of true hospitality and a spirit of neighborliness and community. But being hospitable puts you, your reputation, your time, and your money at risk. However, as we will learn this weekend, the rewards of creative hospitality are immense. In our "neighborliness" to others, we not only share Christ's love in the present moment, but we can make an impact in the lives of people that extends far into the future. Join us for worship this weekend and discover some new perspectives on what "neighborliness" looks like today and how we can impact the lives of others through our welcome and our ministry to their needs!

St. John's