How to Love God and Your Neighbor in a Divided World

In today’s world that’s becoming more divided along racial and political lines, what does unity in community actually look like for those that claim to follow Jesus? In Luke 10:25–37, Jesus brings us back to the foundation of what it means to live in right relationship with God and with one another. Scripture reminds us, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind”; and, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27, NIV).

When asked, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus shared the story of the Good Samaritan, showing that loving others means crossing boundaries and caring for those who may be overlooked, excluded, or in need. Unity in community begins when we choose compassion over division and extend the same grace that Christ has shown us to those around us.

Three Key Takeaways

Here are a few key takeaways that will help you showcase your love for God and love your neighbor.

1. Choose to love and not label others.

Ask Jesus to help you see people the way He sees them instead of through your own biases or pre-judgments.

2. Choose compassion, empathy, and justice when responding to others.

Focus on people rather than on the issues of the day, media talking points, or political agendas.

3. Let kindness lead you when interacting with others, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Examine your heart.
 Ask God to reveal anything that keeps you from loving others well.

Weekly Challenge

This week, start a conversation, exemplify kindness, or lend a helping hand to someone who is in some way different from you. Ask the Holy Spirit to allow your actions to reflect Christ’s love, mercy, and justice so you can help build unity with those in your community instead of perpetuating division.