Amid deep division over immigration policies and the rising number of worship centers targeted in hate crimes, religion publishers are drawing more attention to one of Christianity’s core teachings—to love thy neighbor as thyself. A variation of the Golden Rule, the command is one of the most recognizable phrases of the Bible, yet authors are shedding new light on what it means and how it can be practiced today. Check out new and forthcoming titles on loving thy neighbor below.
Love Thy Neighbor: A Muslim Doctor’s Struggle for Home in Rural America
Dr. Virji, who moved his family to a small Minnesota town in order to address the shortage of doctors in rural America, recounts the climate of fear and division he encountered, as well as how an invitation by a local pastor to address misconceptions about Muslims practices and beliefs impacted his faith and his future.
Loving My Actual Neighbor: 7 Practices to Treasure the People Right in Front of You
Kuykendall, a blogger for the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) online ministry and cohost of The Open Door Sisterhood podcast, lays out seven steps that can help readers “love others well,” according to the publisher. The book draws on practices found in the first chapter of 2 Peter, such as practicing humility and listening with understanding.
Reckless Love: Jesus’ Call to Love Our Neighbor
Berlin, senior pastor of Floris United Methodist Church in Virginia, explores how Jesus taught the “greatest commandment” to his disciples and argues that learning to love neighbors can lead to a deeper relationship with God—not vice versa. A six-week study guide, DVD, and comprehensive leader guide is also available.
Shrewd Samaritan: Faith, Economics, and the Road to Loving Our Global Neighbor
Wydick, an economist and columnist for Christianity Today, draws on the biblical parables of the Good Samaritan and the Shrewd Manager to look at ways Christians can have an impact on global problems. The author identifies resources—such as time, talent, opportunity, and money—as well as ways to use them to help victims of disease, violence, injustice, and poverty.
Who is My Neighbor? A Little Book of Guidance
As part of the Little Books series on social justice and faith, immigrant and Episcopal priest Page collects stories about refugees, urging readers to discover compassion and redefine “neighbor.”
