Challenge #6: Play with a Neighbor

New here? You have stumbled onto Challenge #6 of my neighborhood outreach challenge. We are reclaiming our streets, one prayer (and one game) at a time. You can get the full 10-challenge framework in my new book, How to Love Your Neighbor Without Being Weird,  but today, let’s go play.

The Challenge: Get Out and Play

From the Book:

Invite a neighbor to get out of the house and play! Play is a powerful indicator of a safe and healthy community. Choose an activity that fits your shared interests: take a walk, visit a dog park, attend a local high school game, or grab a pickleball paddle. From board games and bowling to hiking and karaoke, there are dozens of ways to connect. By moving your recreation into shared spaces, you create natural opportunities to learn what is on your neighbor’s heart while enjoying mutual interests.

Go Deeper: 45 Ways to Play

Not sure what to do? The book gives a few ideas, but here on the blog, I’ve brainstormed 45 specific ways to get out of the house. Pick one that fits your vibe! Check out the complete list below.

For the “Indoor” Types

• Board Games or Cards

• Book Signing

• Shopping

• Museum
• Art Class

The Rules: No Weirdness!

From the Book:

Play is the ultimate “un-weird” bridge. You aren’t forcing a sermon; you’re just being a friend.

Whether you are an introvert who prefers a quiet book signing or an extrovert who loves a music concert, there is an activity on the list for you.

If you’re nervous, start with something low-pressure like a walk or a community event where the focus is on the activity itself rather than just face-to-face conversation.

God’s Way

From the Book:

In Zechariah 8:4-5, God shares a vision of a thriving community where the elderly sit on benches and children fill the parks with laughter.

“Old men and old women will come back to Jerusalem, sit on benches on the streets and spin tales… And boys and girls will fill the public parks, laughing and playing—a good city to grow up in.” (The Message)

Play is more than just fun; it is a sign of peace and strength. God designed play to relieve stress, improve our social skills, and heal emotional wounds. When we play with our neighbors, we are practicing the “cooperation with others” that God intended for His people, breaking down walls of isolation through shared joy.

The Words: What to Say

Inviting someone to hang out can feel like asking for a date. Take the pressure off with these casual scripts from the book:

“I’ve been wanting to check out that new pickleball court (or trail/mini-golf/museum). Would you like to join me this Saturday?”

OR

“I’m heading to the high school game tonight, would you like to ride along?”

Ready for Challenge #7?

You’ve played the game—now let’s share a meal.

In the 10th Anniversary Edition of How to Love Your Neighbor Without Being Weird, I walk you through 10 specific challenges to move from “stranger” to “neighbor,” including the art of “Eating Together” without the stress of a fancy dinner party.

The purpose of play

God had more in mind than our pleasure and enjoyment when He envisioned a playful society. According to Helpguide.org, play can provide these 15 benefits:

11. Refreshes your mind and body
12. Encourages teamwork
13. Helps you see problems in new ways
14. Triggers creativity and innovation
15. Prevents burnout