Goodness
The question raised by the Lawyer who was trying to trick Jesus, “Who is my neighbour?” really should not have been asked. Frequently in the Old Testament we see the people being encouraged to care for widows, orphans and the stranger. Everyone, but particularly those in need, is our neighbour.
Sometimes we can help a person and save their life, as in the story of the Good Samaritan. At other times we can just talk to a person living on the street as a normal human being.
Care and Compassion are two virtues that are shown by the Good person.
Have I seen someone in the last few days that towards whom I could have been more compassionate?
Today’s Prayer
Preparation: Begin by stilling; then dedicating the time of prayer to God and asking God that all you think, feel and imagine are for the glory of God.
Gift: Ask for what you desire. Suggestion: To know Jesus more clearly, love him more dearly, and follow him more nearly.
Setting: A Scripture reading to imagine.
Scripture
Luke 10:29-37 NRSVACE
But wanting to justify himself, the lawyer asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbour?’
Jesus replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead.
Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.
But a Samaritan while travelling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity.
He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, “Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.”
Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?’
The Lawyer said, ‘The one who showed him mercy.’
Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’
Conversation: Talk to Jesus in your own words as a friend
Final Prayer: End with a formal prayer such as the Lord’s Prayer/Our Father.
Today’s Music
The Good Samaritan: Dallas Holm