[ This is a guest post from Josh Reeves. ]
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 my top 25. Not all of these are for everyone, but hopefully there will be several ideas on the list that God uses to help you engage your neighbours. Would love to hear stories of how you have lived some of these out or other ways you have engaged your neighbours.
Stay outside in the front yard longer while watering the yard
Walk your dog regularly around the same time in your neighbourhood
Sit on the front porch and letting kids play in the front yard
Pass out baked goods (fresh bread, cookies, brownies, etc.)
Invite neighbours over for dinner
Attend and participate in HOA functions
Attend the parties invited to by neighbours
Do a food drive or coat drive in winter and get neighbours involved
Have a game night (yard games outside, or board games inside)
Art swap night – bring out what you’re tired of and trade with neighbours
Grow a garden and give out extra produce to neighbours
Have an Easter egg hunt on your block and invite neighbours use their front yards
Start a weekly open meal night in your home
Do a summer BBQ every Friday night and invite others to contribute
Create a block/ street email and phone contact list for safety
Host a sports game watching party
Host a coffee and dessert night
Organize and host a ladies artistic creation night
Organize a tasting tour on your street (everyone sets up food and table on front porch)
Host a movie night and discussion afterwards
Start a walking/running group in the neighbourhood
Start hosting a play date weekly for other stay at home parents
Organize a carpool for your neighbourhood to help save gas
Volunteer to coach a local little league sports team
Have a front yard ice cream party in the summer
Do you have some other ideas or ways that you or your Missional Community have engaged your neighbourhood?
