Scripture Passage: Luke 10:25-37
The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”
Luke 10:37 NLT
Like many students, these days, my daughter, Elle, is navigating the challenges of completing schoolwork online as a result of COVID-19.
Recently, Elle saw a question on the message board from a new student who didn’t understand an assignment.
Elle thought someone else would help her. But when no one did, and the same question appeared from the same girl the next day, Elle stopped what she was doing and typed:
“Hey, what are your questions? I am not sure I can answer all of them, but I can try.”
I was proud of Elle, and her story made me ask myself: How do I respond when someone needs my help? Do I consider it an interruption or an opportunity?
I’m embarrassed that I tend to set limits about who I help, when I help, and how much I help.
Maybe you can relate.
That’s probably one reason why Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37.
The parable shows that God is keenly interested in how we treat people. He doesn’t want us acting as if we’ve already met our quota for helping or insisting that it’s someone else’s turn to help.
The next time God taps me on the shoulder to get me to help someone, I pray I will be as compassionate and responsive as Elle.
About the Author:
Laura Lacey Johnson is the author of 10-Second Prayers to Transform Your Life: From the Parables of Jesus. In addition to writing, she is a speaker at conferences and churches. To watch Laura’s video devotionals, or to download your FREE copy of 3 Little-Known Reasons Christianity Transformed the World, visit her website at www.lauralaceyjohnson.com.