• They are sent with authority. (“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” – John 20:21)

• They represent Jesus. (“It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” – Galatians 2:20)

• They bridge two worlds. (“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20)

• They speak & act on behalf of Jesus. (“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” – Colossians 3:17)

• They are committed to building relationships. (“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts…enjoying the favor of all the people.” – Acts 2:46–47)

• They are equipped for God’s mission. (“...to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” – Ephesians 4:12)

What worlds do we bridge? To what relationships are we committed?

Jesus’ answer is: our neighbor.

Your neighbor isn’t just the person living next door—it’s the parent on the PTO, the travel sports companion, the business owner serving your morning coffee, the person sitting next to you in church, the coworker you meet daily or chat with on Teams/Zoom, and even your own family. Your neighbor is anyone in your sphere of influence. Every interaction is a chance to extend Christ’s love.

As followers of Jesus and his ambassadors, we are people who represent his love and character in the everyday places we already live, work, and play.

You don’t need to add more to your to-do list. Instead, the invitation is to live with intention where you already are.

Where has God already placed you? (Let’s call these your spheres.)

How can you intentionally reflect Jesus there? (Let’s call these your practices.)

Where and how do we serve?

SPHERES

Spheres are the where. We have identified 5 different spheres: our neighborhood, family, work & school, local businesses, and activities & causes.

Neighborhood: Neighbors, apartments, backyards, & common spaces.

Family: Spouse, kids, grandkids, parents, siblings, & caregiving roles.

Work & School: Professional and school spaces.

Local Businesses: People at the places you frequent, such as restaurants, retail, baristas, servers, mechanics, and delivery drivers.

Activities & Causes: Groups such as sports, clubs, recreation leagues, hobby groups, and scouts, and causes that serve the vulnerable—nonprofits and volunteer organizations.

PRACTICES

Practices are the how. We have identified 5 practices that will help us live intentionally like Jesus.

Presence: Showing up consistently and displaying the character of Christ. Being available in everyday places. Take local walks, work from a regular spot, or arrive early to events.

Prayer: Asking God to work in the lives of people around you. Do a prayer walk, keep a journal, or ask someone how you can pray.

Generosity: Welcoming and helping others in tangible ways through hospitality, intentional service, and giving. Host a dinner, help a neighbor with errands, assist with yardwork, or offer to babysit.

Listening & Learning: Seeking to understand others’ stories and perspectives. Ask about others’ backgrounds, attend a cultural event, or read something that broadens your view.

Faith Conversations: Naturally sharing how Jesus has impacted your life. Invite someone to church, share a story, or ask spiritual questions.