“…Love your neighbour as yourself…” – Mark 12:31 (NIV)
Jesus’ second greatest commandment is more than having good manners; it reveals the heart, and a clean heart makes room for others. This truth extends to communities and nations.
During Nepal’s devastating floods, the government called on neighbouring countries to help care for survivors and preserve the bodies of those who were lost. After the Crans-Montana fire in Switzerland, neighbouring countries opened hospitals and provided resources to the injured in France, Italy, and Germany. In the Barima tragedy in Guyana, France provided specialised divers to help recover loved ones.
These 2026 events remind us that neighbours matter. The Book of Acts offers the same lesson: after the Holy Spirit came, the early church shared resources, broke bread, cared for one another, and remained in fellowship (Acts 2:42-47). Their strength was found in unity.
Modern life can pull us apart as careers and opportunities place oceans between families. Yet our hearts are more powerful than the distance. At breakfast, we once asked our young son what would be different if he grew up in Guyana, and he replied, “Everyone would be happy because I would be with the extended family.”
His observation carries the deep wisdom of a child: God designed us for connection.
This echoes the birth of the diaspora ministry by Bishop Dr. M.R. Massiah, as many sustain unity with their families and our FAOGW fellowship. These acts rest on the knowledge that love and togetherness unlock a richer quality of life. Together, we are stronger – spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially. And a clean heart asks not, “How can I protect what is mine?” but, “How can I serve my neighbour as myself?”
Today, I challenge you to reflect:
- Does my lifestyle promote unity or isolation?
- Who around me needs encouragement, support, or fellowship?
- Am I willing to share my time, resources, and gifts as the early church did?
And here is a watch phrase for you: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, NIV)
Read: Luke 10:35-37; 1 John 4:7
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 24:5-14; Philippians 4:2-23; Jeremiah 6; Jeremiah 7:1-29