The Crossroad of Your Heart

Luke 10:30

New King James Version

Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

For Encouragement

The rugged, winding, and steep road from Jerusalem to Jericho lies in eerie silence. Somewhere ahead, a wounded man lies motionless, beaten and stripped, his breath shallow under the blazing sun. The footsteps of his attackers had already faded into the hush, leaving only vulnerability in their wake.

Have you ever thought about the identity of the robbery victim in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk. 10:25-37)? Normally, we don’t stop to consider that we could be the victims we see in such situations. Unfortunately, criminals have no respect for age, position, or social status. Neither do accidents. But how heartlessly we often say to ourselves, “Too bad it happened to them”, and simply pass by.

Jesus told the classic Parable to teach about who is a neighbor. The priest and the Levite’s actions reveal human selfishness (31-32). Yes, the Levitical law rendered a person defiled and unfit for temple service, and that could be their excuse if they thought the man was probably dead. However, raising that above human life is untenable in righteous living.Yet, how often do our own “pressing” duties cause us to disregard the urgent needs of others, continuing without remorse?Thankfully, Jesus showed us a better way through the Samaritan’s example (33-35).

The identity of the robbery victim did not matter to the Samaritan. Neither did he think about his own safety. The man’s life was at stake. Whatever he was going to do in Jericho could wait. He did not know the result of his kindness. The victim had become his neighbor because his need had intersected with his ability to help, and that dictated his actions, which timelessly instructs on God’s love and mercy.

Every need in another person’s life is an opportunity from God to reveal His heart to the needy. The priest and the Levite failed woefully. However, the outflow of God’s grace in our lives should help us be the merciful Samaritans to others in similar situations.

So where is your heart? Does it feel pity (Lk. 10:33)? Where are your bandages, your oil and wine, and your donkey to carry the world’s desperate and dying to the inn on Calvary (Lk. 10:34)? Are you ready to cover the extra cost of keeping your wounded neighbor in Christ’s hospital (35)?

“Go and do likewise”, Jesus tells you today (37).

Before you move on, take a moment to name one neighbor you will show mercy to this week. Write the name down. Plan a simple act of care or service for them today in response to the Lord’s command.

Pray With Me

Father, teach us to have your heart for the needy whose situation intersects with our ability to help. Such is our neighbor regardless of racial affinity, wealth, or social standing. For Christ’s sake and your honor, amen. 

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