Hosting a block party to show God’s love and transform your neighborhood
Loving your neighbor looks like creating community amongst the people you live next to. Oftentimes we opt out of opportunities for conversation with our neighbors and instead turn to avoid them while getting the mail. If transformation is to happen in cities across America, as neighbors we have to become available. Being available means inviting people and creating a time for connection. To create this community in your neighborhood, a great event to host is a block party.
God has placed you in your neighborhood for a reason, it is your mission field. Pick a Saturday evening and bring out sidewalk chalk, lemonade and a grill. Get your neighbors outside! Drop invitations in mailboxes or go door-to-door personally delivering invitations.
Before invitations are sent, plan the details for your party. Decide who will provide what food. Maybe your block party is a potluck. Your family can provide hot dogs and hamburgers while others bring buns, chips, desserts and drinks. Other food options include an ice cream sundae bar, dessert only party or concession stand food like nachos, popcorn and candy. Also consider what entertainment there will be. Great options include a Bluetooth speaker playing with music, lawn games, board games, bubbles, sparklers or an outdoor movie. Also consider space. Will the party be held on your lawn? Is there an outdoor picnic area close by? Do people need to bring extra chairs? Once these details have been decided, start creating and sending out invitations!
As your neighbors arrive, be sure to personally meet and talk to each and every one of them. Not only are you the host, but this allows you to better follow up with families so you know what their needs are. Introduce neighbors to other neighbors. Make them feel welcomed, seen and important. Ask questions and listen well.
As your party comes to a close, be sure this is not the last time you and your family create community for your neighbors. Follow up often and check in on those you met. This could look like a walk around the neighborhood, catching up at a coffee shop or inviting them over for dinner. Take note of what is going on in their lives. Maybe there is a newly widowed husband, a mom who just got a divorce, a family about to welcome a new baby or a family taking care of aging parents. Look for ways to serve and love them well.
A block party truly is a way to share the love of Jesus and be an example of His character. Let your actions speak to who you are following and the forgiveness and love found in Him. In his new book, “Undistracted: Capture Your Purpose. Rediscover Your Joy.,” Bob Goff describes living a purpose driven life as, “That’s how I know I’m living an undistracted life: when I’m joyfully, abundantly and unreasonably available to the people around me.” Find your purpose in serving and loving your God-given neighbors.
“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”