My Neighbor, My Self

“My Neighbor, My Self is a gift to those of us wanting to live out Jesus’s greatest commandment: to love God, neighbor, and self. This fascinating read draws on Scripture and engaging stories to illustrate how these three loves interrelate and reinforce each other. Chase anticipates challenges we may face and transparently shares successes and failures in a way both inspiring and practical. Questions at the end of each chapter promote meaningful reflection for individuals or groups.”


—Paul V. Sorrentino, Director of Religious & Spiritual Life Emeritus, Amherst College





“Chase writes with moving vulnerability about her personal experiences getting to know, love, and help the homeless, and of how these friendships deepened her relationship with Jesus. Sharing her own joys, sorrows, and challenges, she also highlights surprising gifts others have discovered while practicing ‘neighbor love.’ Here are reflective insights and useful tips for any reader seeking to travel his or her own ‘Matthew 25 journey.’”


—Alan R. Burt, author of Blessings of the Burden: Reflections and Lessons in Helping the Homeless





“Storytelling and insightful inspiration reminiscent of Henri Nouwen—that’s what I see in My Neighbor, My Self. Elise Chase gently leads us on a spiritual journey—her own, her community’s—that illustrates how inner growth is both a cause and effect of Samaritan-style concern for neighbors. The empowering love of Jesus is the key. Elise’s book is a guidepost.”


—Evelyn Bence, author of Room at My Table: Preparing Heart and Home for Christian Hospitality and Mary’s Journal





“With courage and vulnerability, Chase invites us to plumb the depths of community, friendship, and service, and reminds us that God’s love is made complete in us. Chase reminds me that I have a soul, and that God’s perfect love casts out fear. She gives me courage to invite Jesus and others below the surface of my life, and to draw near to people who are in need and in pain. This book is for anyone who wants to move beyond thin community and casual relationships into the depths of knowing and being known.”


—Bill Hodgeman, Senior Pastor, College Church, Northampton, Massachusetts