When we limit our understanding of neighbor to our church, denomination, nationality, or religious persuasion, we take Jesus’ name in vain. When we lift up this commandment of Jesus–to love our neighbors–we draw all people to God and one another.

The chief difference between traditional Christianity and gracious Christianity is an insistence on seeing every person as our neighbor, now and forever. All are children of God and brothers and sisters, even those who consider themselves our enemies. Their disregard does not alter Jesus’ command one iota.

from If God Is Love