One of our favorite TV shows of the seventies was the BBC program, Good Neighbors. It starred Richard Briers and Felicity Kendal as the Goods, the offbeat, back to nature neighbors of Margo and Jerry Leadbetter (played by Penelope Keith and Paul Eddington) who lived more ‘prestigious’ lives. Many humorous encounters presented ongoing conflicts between the two couples but they remained close friends, even if the Leadbetters often felt their neighbors were a bit off their rocker. We found the show hilarious at the time but more important, an example of valuing others who are different from us.

Do you know your neighbors? According to a study published this week in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, good neighbors are good for your heart.  Tracking the cardiovascular health of more than 5,000 seniors with no known heart problems over four years, they asked participants how much they felt a part of their neighborhood, if they had neighbors who would help them, whether they trusted people in the area and if their neighbors were friendly.

During the study period, 148 of the participants had a heart attack. Researchers found people who reported feeling more “social cohesion” were less at risk, suggesting your community matters in matters of the heart.  Having communities of friends may help people to participate in certain types of behaviors that protect against cardiovascular damage, according to the study.

Funny how science imitates scripture. A very long time ago, Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” In other words, strive to build community. One man responded to Jesus asking, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan who was more than ‘neighborly’ for an utter stranger, and a person of another race. So in fact, our neighbor may live across town, across the country, or across the world. Especially in this global community, we have many neighbors

Community matters, to God and apparently to your heart. What neighbors will you meet today who need your care?