And Who Is My Neighbor?

I will stand in the gap for my neighbor to defend gospel justice for the marginalized.

Via The Joshua Commission

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” ~Luke 10:36–37 

This line of the Creed — “I will stand in the gap for my neighbor and defend justice for the marginalized” — often stirs the most discussion. That makes sense. Like the expert in the law who tested Jesus, we want to live rightly before God. We want clear boundaries that define when we’ve done “enough” to remain righteous.

But Jesus turns the question back to the heart. The expert’s real concern wasn’t about inclusion but exclusion. His question — “And who is my neighbor?” — was really asking, “Who am I allowed not to love? How much distance, in the eyes of God, can I put between me and those people, and maintain my righteousness?” 

Through the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus shatters that boundary. The religious and community leaders walk by; the one least expected to act with mercy becomes the example of righteousness. “Which of these three was a neighbor?” Jesus asks. The answer is simple — the one who showed mercy.

That call hasn’t changed. We are to stand in the gap with Christlike compassion and empathy. To love beyond comfort zones, beyond culture, and beyond category.

Daily Battle Order: Read the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). Ask the Lord to search your heart (Psalm 139). Who might you secretly hope God would distance so your comfort or righteousness can remain untouched?

Now go and do likewise. Look for someone or a group in your community that may be marginalized — the homeless, the immigrant, the unborn, the incarcerated, or identifies differently than you. Show mercy. Extend compassion. Stand in the gap as Christ did for you.

THE KINGDOM MAN’S CREED

I am a Kingdom Man. I am created by God to bear His image. I am a son and viceroy for my Fathers work. I am a warrior, lover, teacher and king.

I am a Kingdom Man. Like Joshua, I will be strong and courageous. I will train my mind and body for the battles to come. I will discipline my heart, eyes and tongue to be steadfast and faithful to the calling on my life.

I am a Kingdom Man. If a husband, I love and serve my wife, if a father, a loving father to my children. I will love and lead them as Christ loves the Church. If a brother, uncle, guardian, mentor or friend, I will give honor in all of my relationships. I will lead, teach, correct and train in the spirit of righteousness.

I am a Kingdom Man. I am called to break down barriers and free others from strongholds. I am a Peace Maker. My armor is Truth, Righteousness, Grace and Humility. I will stand in the gap for my neighbor to defend gospel justice for the marginalized. 

I am a Kingdom Man. God is my provider. He has given me gifts and talents to exemplify Him with the work of my hands. I will work with diligence and excellence. My labor will be honest and its fruits purposeful.

I am a Kingdom Man with a Kingdom vision. Commissioned by Christ. My life is the Father’s. I am intentional. I will grow in my faith, be consistent in my actions and leave a legacy worthy of the race I have run.

I AM a Kingdom Man!