Read Luke 10:25-42
“And who is my neighbor?” This question was not asked out of a desire to love one’s neighbor, but to justify not loving one. Jesus responds with the parable of the Good Samaritan and then turns the question around: “Which of these proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” Even as people who recognize our need for a Savior, we still find ourselves looking for ways to justify ourselves.
In the commandments, God seems far less concerned with our self-justification and far more concerned with restoring us to right relationship with Himself—and shaping us into people who embody His love and restoration in the world, particularly in the lives of our neighbors.
Today we live in a world where, with a swipe of a screen, a news alert, or endless scrolling through social media, we are made aware of needs all across the globe. Technology can place suffering, injustice, and crisis before our eyes instantly. With modern transportation, we can cross continents in a matter of hours. So if we take Jesus seriously when He asks, “Which one acted as a neighbor?” and then commands, “Go and do likewise,” where do we even begin? Who is our neighbor?
What made the wounded man on the road the one the Samaritan should help? Sometimes the simplest answer is the best one: he was in his way, and he needed help. So who is in your road today? Who in your life is in need of mercy, care, compassion, protection, forgiveness, or help? Who is near enough to you that needs someone (you) to “prove to be a neighbor”?
Loving our neighbor is the hard, self-giving work of love. It is love that brings no personal gain, achievement, recognition, or applause. In Christ, we have already gained everything. Our Lord walked the road to the cross, found us beaten by sin and left for dead, bound up our wounds, and gave us new life. Now, restored by His mercy, we are free to go and do likewise.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for loving me with a sacrificial love that was willing to give your life for mine. Give me discernment for the needs of those you place in my life. Give me compassion to respond to their needs. Amen.