Here is a devotion to start your day!
Also available now at Power, Love & Miracles:
Hidden Heroes of the Bible: The Empty Tomb. Chapters 10-12
Thomas: Doubt- Doorway to Deeper Faith. The Bible Unplugged podcast, episode 74
Hero: A consistent caring neighbor
Long-term presence in a throwaway culture
Scripture: Romans 12:9–13
In love of the brothers be tenderly affectionate to one another; in honor prefer one another, not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord, rejoicing in hope, enduring in troubles, continuing steadfastly in prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, and given to hospitality.
Reflection
We live in a world of quick moves and quick exits. People change jobs, cities, churches, and friendships with a speed that would have stunned earlier generations. Sometimes moves are necessary and right. But there is a quiet heroism in staying put—especially in relationships.
Paul’s words to the church in Rome are a picture of rooted love. None of that happens in a hurry. Those are slow words—cling, continue, contribute, practice hospitality.
Being “the neighbor who stays” doesn’t always mean you never change your address. It means you stay available. You don’t bolt at the first discomfort. You let people know where to find you emotionally and spiritually. You make a habit of being there.
It looks like checking on the widower down the street, year after year. Remembering birthdays. Showing up with soup when someone is sick and again when they are grieving. It looks like staying in a church long enough to go through both joys and conflicts, learning to love imperfect people with an imperfect heart.
Long-term presence is not glamorous. It can feel mundane, even frustrating. You see people at their worst as well as their best. You see your own impatience and limits. But over time, your presence becomes a stabilizing grace. You are a reminder that love can stay in the room when things are messy.
Unassuming heroes are often those who choose to be deeply, consistently present in a world that keeps everything shallow and temporary.
Centering Prayer
Lord,
You are the God who stays faithful when I wander, steady when I falter. Thank You for the people who have remained in my life through many seasons. Form that same staying love in me. Show me where You are inviting me to root, to remain, to keep showing up, even when it’s hard or unnoticed. – Amen
Practice for Today
Do one small, steady act of presence in your relational world: check on a long-time friend, linger in conversation with a neighbor, or simply stay a bit longer with someone who tends to be overlooked.
Journaling Prompt
Where is God inviting me to remain—relationally, spiritually, or geographically—when I’m tempted to pull back or move on?
Closing Blessing
Plant your feet in the soil of committed love.
Stay through the seasons of ease and of ache.
Let your presence become a sign of God’s faithful heart.
Live in the slow, strong love of the neighbor who stays.
Pray as You Go
Breathe in: Root my love deeply…
Breathe out: … help me stay when I’m needed
This work is freely shared. If it nourishes your life with God, you’re welcome to help sustain it.