I have been reading through Luke at the moment and was challenged (again!) on reading the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). Have you ever noticed the question the lawyer asked Jesus in an effort to justify himself: “And who is my neighbour?” (v.29)
He didn’t ask “How can I be a better neighbour?” His focus was on who is his neighbour (suggesting that there are some people who would fall into the category of ‘not my neighbour’)
Jesus didn’t challenge this question directly but told the story of the Good Samaritan. He used a case study to challenge the man’s thinking and get the answer to the question he should have asked.
36″Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbour to the man who fell among the robbers?” 37 He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.”
As followers of Christ we are to see everyone as our neighbour and show them mercy. My prayer for you is that you seek to show mercy to everyone around you. Show people compassion and forgiveness when it is hard because, as his children, we have received God’s mercy. God has forgiven us when we should be punished. He has put our punishment on his Son so that we can be right before Him. Hallelujah! What a Saviour!
This coming week please continue to pray for:
- All those grieving and coming to terms with recent news of a bereavement. This week, in Surrey, we’ve had a recently retired Sergeant’s death.
- Please also pray for our Surrey Force Chaplain as he works with senior managers, families and others in the preparation for any involvement in the funerals.
- Those recovering from illness or receiving ongoing treatment – you are in our prayers!
Every blessing!
Bert
This weeks Prayer Letter was guest written by Bert Dean
