25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"
Answer: "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind; and love your neighbor as yourself."
It seems we ask this question hoping the answer will change or will be easier to accomplish. Scripture tells us Love God, then, Love mankind; in that order. For that is the only order that works.
The story of the Good Samaritan is a familiar tale of the unexpected behavior of three individuals. First a man is robbed and beaten and deserted on the road - left to die. Luckily a priest happens along, but this priest didn't have love in his heart. How else could you explain his crossing the road to avoid the injured man?
The second person, a Levite, did much the same and ignored the needs of the dying man. Interestingly, a Samaratan man, who was frowned upon by Priests and Levites, jumped into action. When he discovered the poor man he bandaged his wounds and took him to safety, setting him up at an inn where he could heal and rest.
Luke 10:35 (NIV)
35 The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'
New observation: The Samaritan wasn't the only good person in this story. What about the Innkeeper? He didn't have to agree to take care of this stranger. He didn't have to believe the Samaritan would return and make good on his promise. There must be more here than meets the eye. What do you think? Feel free to comment in the space below.
Luke 10:25-37
No comments:
Post a Comment