July 11 Cola Salk 2026 Theme and introduction to the week

 

It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

What does it really mean to love your neighbor?

That simple question will guide our week together at Columbia Salkehatchie as youth and adult volunteers serve homeowners across our community. Inspired by Jesus' command to "love your neighbor as yourself," and the gentle wisdom of Fred Rogers, we'll discover that being a good neighbor begins with paying attention—listening first, showing kindness, practicing empathy, and creating spaces where others feel seen, valued, and loved.

Each workday, our campers and homeowners will begin the morning with a short devotion built around one verse of Scripture, a brief reflection, a "Wonder Question" to carry throughout the day, and a simple sending that reminds us all: "Who is our neighbor?" "The one we choose to love."

Beginning Monday, July 13, I'll be sharing each day's devotion here on the blog. Whether you're serving at Salkehatchie, praying from home, or simply looking for a moment of encouragement, I hope you'll join us as we learn together that loving our neighbor isn't just something we do for one week each summer—it's a way of following Jesus every day.

Welcome to the neighborhood.