25 Simple Ways to Live Life With Your Neighbors

Today I’d like to share with you an article by Pastor Josh Reeves, of Redeemer Church in Round Rock, Texas (www.redeemerrr.org). I love the simplicity of the ideas he shares, and how he encourages us to think of ways we can include our neighbors in some of our day-to-day activities. Here is Pastor Reeves’ short-but-sweet article:

I have found that it is often helpful to have practical ideas to start engaging the people around me. Most of the things on this list are normal, everyday things that many people are already doing. The hope is that we would do these things with Gospel intentionality. This means we do them:

• In the normal rhythms of life pursuing to meet and engage new people.
• Prayerfully watching and listening to the Holy Spirit to discern where God is working.
• Looking to boldly, humbly, and contextually proclaim the Gospel in word and deed.

Below is a list of 25 simple ways to get to know your neighbors. Not all of these are for everyone, but hopefully there will be several ideas on the list that God uses to help you live life with your neighbors:

1. Cook an extra casserole and give it to a neighbor
2. Buy an extra dozen donuts and give them to a neighbor
3. Start a compost pile and allow neighbors to dump their compost
4. Host a coffee and dessert night
5. Organize and host a ladies craft night
6. Organize an effort for neighbors to help care for homebound or elderly neighbors
7. Become a regular at your neighborhood park or pool
8. If you have a skill, let neighbors know that you can use it to help them for free
9. Host a movie night and discussion afterward
10. Start a walking or running group in the neighborhood
11. Start hosting a weekly or monthly play date with other stay-at-home parents
12. Organize a carpool for your neighborhood to help save gas
13. Collect thrift store items from neighbors and offer to take them to the store
14. Have a front yard ice cream party in the summer
15. Start a sewing group
16. Help your kids host a lemonade stand in your driveway (invite neighbor kids to help)
17. Throw a Labor Day block party
18. Start a neighborhood Facebook/Twitter/Google + group, or join Next Door
19. Ask longtime residents to help you learn about the neighborhood
20. Offer to babysit neighbors’ kids so they can have a date night
21. Find out your neighbors’ birthdays and take them a card and baked treat
22. Set up a meet-your-neighbors night with drinks in your driveway or yard
23. Ask your homeowners/neighborhood association or apartment complex if they need help with anything
24. Host a regular Saturday morning breakfast potluck
25. Host a sports game watching party

Missional Tip: Pick one of these ideas and act on it this week.

If you try one of these ideas, let us know how it went by emailing ([email protected]) or sharing on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/livelifetogether)!