The Way I see it

(during the decades of urban-suburban out-migration) "... the American dream became the practical theology of the people of faith and upward mobility became the sign of God's blessing on the faithful. Little thought was given to a theology of community that provided the framework for Christians to live interdependently rather than independently. Nor was a theology of neighbor part of the Christian dialogue during this period. 'Neighbor' became a word so broadly used to describe any and every human relationship that it lost its meaning. And when 'neighbor' was neutralized, it no longer specifically included the people who live next door. Thus loving one's neighbor lost its practical impact in everyday living. Also lost was a theology of place that raised the issue of deployment of God's people. Without such a theology, the people of faith begin to drift toward places of personal convenience and comfort with little reflection on the strategic kingdom importance of where Godly neighbors are located." 

From, "Restoring At-Risk Communities," p. 77; 

Chapter entitled: "Relocation-Living in the Community"