My favorite thing about this book is that it is both inspiring and simple. When it comes to loving our neighbors, most of us don’t get traction because we don’t know where to start or because we think the small things don’t matter. This book will help you in both of these areas and inspire you with stories of people who understood that starting small makes a big difference. And best of all, along the way you’ll be reminded that the reason we love our neighbor is because God loves us first and can make His love flow through us.
But it’s not all warmth and encouragement. Two examples of straight talk come to mind.
“So-called friendship evangelism that never actually arrives at the gospel is neither friendship nor evangelism.”
In addressing obstacles we face, “If we are too busy to love our neighbors, we are too busy.”
Read it and put it into practice. You and your neighbors will be glad you did!
An encouraging book on how to not only reach out to your neighbors but how to love them too and invite them to know God who loves them also. This is not a turn or burn book but a way to share the goodness of Jesus Christ with neighbors without preaching to them like they are some kind of spiritual project. It seeks to understand and care about those who are our neighbors across an amount of time that allows them to see you as an authentic person. I bought my copy from one of the authors after he presented the concept at Brandywine Valley Church. There are some hilarious moments in the book along with more serious issues, but the manor of the presentations makes one want to do this. I believe that you don't actually have to have a yard to began to use the authors insights to care about the lives of your neighbors.
Book Review: Front Yard Mission by Jonathan Weibel
Jonathan Weibel’s book, Front Yard Mission: How to Start a Love God, Love Neighbor Movement in Your Neighborhood, is an inspiring and practical guide for anyone who wants to build better relationships with their neighbors. The book encourages readers to move beyond the walls of their homes and into their front yards, where real connections can happen. Weibel’s message is simple: loving God and loving others starts right where we live.
One of the biggest lessons in this book is that small, intentional actions can lead to big changes in a neighborhood. Weibel explains that we don’t have to organize huge events or do anything complicated to make a difference. Simple things like saying hello, sharing a meal, or helping a neighbor with a project can create strong bonds over time. The book reminds us that being present and available is more important than having the perfect plan.
Another key lesson is that being a good neighbor is not just about kindness—it’s about building relationships that last. Weibel encourages readers to be consistent and patient. Friendships don’t happen overnight, and sometimes people are hesitant to open up. But by showing up regularly and being a good listener, we can create spaces where people feel safe and valued. The book includes real-life stories of people who have transformed their neighborhoods through simple acts of love, which makes the message even more powerful.
While Front Yard Mission is full of great advice, one downside is that some of the ideas may feel challenging for introverts or people who are not naturally outgoing. Weibel focuses a lot on face-to-face interactions and being outside in public spaces, which might not be comfortable for everyone. While he encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones, he doesn’t give as many suggestions for those who may struggle with social anxiety or shyness. It would have been helpful if the book included more advice on how quieter or more reserved people can still build strong neighborly relationships in a way that works for them.
Overall, Front Yard Mission is an encouraging and thought-provoking book that challenges readers to rethink how they interact with the people around them. It’s a great reminder that building strong communities doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes a little effort and a willingness to connect. If you want to make a difference in your neighborhood, this book will give you plenty of ideas and motivation to get started.