Going to the Extreme

Going to the Extreme

Bible: Luke 10:30-37

Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise” (V.37).

The road that runs between Jerusalem and Jericho is a narrow path that rises really high above the canyon far below. Steep cliffs form the other side of the canyon. This regular route between two important cities is the setting of one of Jesus’ most famous stories: a man is attacked and left for dead. When the religious people see the injured man, Jesus said, they “passed by on the
other side”—possibly meaning the path on the other side of the canyon
(LUKE 10: 31-32).

Jesus’ listeners would have understood what this meant. By leaving the path to go down into the canyon and back up the “other side”, these two religious leaders went to the extreme to avoid the injured man. They should have been examples of love and kindness; instead they put a canyon between them and the man who needed their help.

But when a Samaritan saw the man, despite the long-standing hatred between Jews and Samaritans, he went to the extreme to take care of him. He bandaged and treated the man’s wounds, took him to an inn and paid for all his expenses (VV.34-35). Jesus wants us to act kindly when we meet suffering people (V.37). Instead of avoiding them like the religious leaders, may we follow the Samaritan’s example of love and concern.

To Pray about…

Father, if I meet someone in need today, please give me the strength to offer them love and kindness.

GOD WANTS US TO GO OUT OF OUR WAY TO HELP.

Youth Edition – Our Daily Bread Ministries