To visibly reflect Jesus, we LOVE, OBEY, live out our unique PURPOSE, and play our part on the TEAM. This morning, we begin to unpack what it means to reflect Jesus as a TEAM by looking at the amazing team victory in Nehemiah 2:11-20.

Nehemiah saw Jerusalem’s brokenness and called others to rebuild the wall. He didn’t work alone! He gathered a team to restore what had been ruined, challenging the people to rebuild and remove their disgrace. This story of collective action can inspire us today to reflect Jesus by building teams to love our neighbors.

To activate your faith, consider the PATHway to transforming your neighborhood: Proximity, Awareness, Teamwork, and Holy.

• Proximity: Just as Nehemiah inspected the city walls closely, we need to get near the people around us. Loving our neighbors begins with moving toward them, listening to their needs, and understanding what’s broken.
• Awareness: As we draw near, we become aware of the opportunities God presents. Ephesians 4:1-16 shows us how each person in the body of Christ has unique gifts. When we become aware of these gifts, we see how God equips us to serve and build one another up.
• Teamwork: Nehemiah didn’t rebuild the walls alone. Similarly, we are called to work together as the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). It’s a team effort, requiring every person’s skills, hands, and hearts. We are more effective together.
• Holy: God’s blessing rests on the work done in His name. As Nehemiah sought God’s provision, we trust God to spark compassion, ignite movements of love, and provide the resources needed for the task. When we work together, God is glorified, and the disgrace is removed.

So, what needs rebuilding in your neighborhood? Who can join you in this holy work? Take a step today, activating your faith by visibly reflecting Jesus and building a team to love your neighbors.

Exercise: Build Your Neighboring Team

1. Map Your Proximity: Draw a map of your immediate neighborhood or community. Identify at least five households, families, or individuals that you know or would like to get to know better. Label them on your map.
2. Increase Awareness: For each household, take a few moments to consider what you know about their needs, struggles, or desires. Are there any areas where you sense God may be calling you to help? Write down any insights or promptings that come to mind.
3. 3. Assemble Your Team: Reach out to at least two other people—friends, family, or fellow church members—and share your heart for loving your neighbors. Ask if they’d be willing to join you in serving your community. Together, discuss practical ways you can start engaging with the people on your map. This could involve hosting a neighborhood event, offering practical help, or simply starting conversations.
4. Make It Holy: Commit to praying as a team for the people in your neighborhood and for wisdom and guidance from God. Ask Him to open doors, provide resources, and unite your team in this mission. Trust God to bless your efforts and glorify His name through your actions.

By completing this exercise, you will build a vital Kingdom skill that will bless others. Simply “rinse and repeat 1-4.” You’ll not only build a team but also take a visible step toward activating your faith and reflecting Jesus in your community.

Let us know how it goes!