Luke 10:29-37

In the many, many times I’ve heard this parable, I have never once understood it to mean that I am the beaten, half-dead man left for dead. I often think I may be the Priest or the Levite that crossed on the opposite side of the road. I’ve always understood that I should be like the Samaritan – choosing to have compassion and show love to my neighbour. And I think we are to do this. It is what the Lord instructs – “Go and do likewise” (vs 37). It’s a very important lesson in this parable.

But as Pastor Ben mentioned on Sunday, WE are also the man beaten, stripped and left for dead on the road. And it is only Jesus – the kind, gentle, loving Father – that comes to pick us up, clean us up and make us new. We were once a lost, defeated people, but because of Jesus, we are alive! We have been transformed by His loving-kindness to be people who now show mercy to others in need. 

When you are given this kind of acceptance and love, you can’t help but share that with others around you. As believers, we should be looking for ways to care for the broken, beaten, and distraught. These people need the love of Jesus through us. As you go about your day today, be active in looking for someone you can show love to. It doesn’t have to be as extreme a case as this parable. It could look like writing an encouraging note to a co-worker who always seems down or angry. Or sending dinner to a family who lost a loved one. There are many ways we can reach out and show the love of Jesus in our actions. Look for an opportunity today.