This past week I’ve shared that Jesus encourages us to become salt and light to those around us. The next step in this process would be to ask, “So, who do we reach?” It is not uncommon for many of us to think that God is calling us to go to the other side of the world to serve. And some do go there. But God is calling you to love your neighbor. Who are your neighbors or your near-dwellers? I consider anyone within 15 feet of you as your neighbor. Imagine a 15-foot invisible hula hoop around you. Wherever you are, anyone inside it qualifies as your neighbor. It’s easy to only select certain people in that loop. However, you should consider everyone in your hula hoop space of 15 feet eligible to be a neighbor.

In a story I heard, a woman said she felt guilty about not serving and thought she should go to an orphanage in Africa. She saw a need in Africa and was compelled to serve there. And yes, people are called there to make a difference. But then she realized that she was needed right where she lived by her children and their friends. Jesus says to love our neighbors. You can succeed at reaching out and loving your neighbor!

Friend, God is going to challenge you this week to reach out to someone in your sphere of influence. You’re going to have a moment when God will show you someone in your path. You’ll have about three seconds to make a decision, and then the moment will pass. Seize that moment. With the help of the Holy Spirit, you can successfully reach out to those around you and make a difference!