Stories from Lockdown part 1 - When I needed a neighbour

Published on: 13th March 2020

The other day, I decided to cut my front lawn, it was glorious sunshine and as I finished the job, I noticed my neighbour’s lawn was quite long too, as we know each other really well I decided to cut his, he’s busy trying to fix cars for those working on the frontline.

After finishing both lawns, I look down the road and saw a lawn of a gentleman who lives on the road.  I know that he's not been well, so I popped down with my lawnmower, knocked his window and offered my services. His grass was a little longer than expected but I mowed the front and side, then noticed the grass in his back garden was equally as long, so went around the back and began to mow that as well. It was so long in the back garden that it nearly blew up the mower, but I eventually completed the task.

I walked back round the front and the gentleman was stood on his doorstep. He thanked me for cutting the grass and then pulled out his wallet to ask how much he owed. I said nothing, he was very keen to offer me something for my time and effort and I was insistent that it was free of charge.  He thanked me for such a generous act and I responded by offering him a blessing. He burst into tears, thanking me and grateful for the words of comfort.

As I walked back, I recalled the story of the good Samaritan, a verse I've read a hundred times, in that moment I realised that I have walked past his house not stopping to help the people in need on my own street. I’m so often rushing past, heading to church, off to church meetings, going to help others elsewhere, but the need is right here, on my own front door. 

Church buildings aren't all open yet but church is very much alive. Thank you God for opening my eyes and helping me to see that I am here and can be a good neighbour. 

Wayne Davies is our Intergenerational Missioner in Ludlow

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