The Upper Room Devotion for Wednesday October 11th, 2023 was written by Andrew Billings of Alabama, USA
Scripture
25Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26He said to him, “What is written in the law? What do you read there?” 27He answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” 28And he said to him, “You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.”
29But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” 30Jesus 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. 31Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. 34He 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. 35The 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.’ 36Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” 37He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
Luke 10:25-37 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
I had read the story of the good samaritan many times before I realized that the Samaritan's good deeds did not all happen on a single day. On the first day, he took the man to an inn and cared for him. On the second, he paid the innkeeper to give further aid to the man. In that exchange, he told the innkeeper he would return later on.
Many times when we become a good Samaritan ourselves, we do our single good deed and then return to our normal lives, proud of the gift we've given. Nothing is wrong with that, but the Samaritan's story tells us much more. He cared for a person more than one day and said he would be back. His promise to return demonstrated that the continued welfare of people in need should always be at the forefront of our minds.
I've tried to model this understanding with family and friends who have needed help. Revisiting them for a moment to make sure they're alright shows our love for them. Additionally, it keeps us mindful of the need for extended care for those who need us.
Thought for the Day
With an open spirit, I will look for someone who needs my loving care today.
Author's Prayer
Dear Lord, If there is a need, give us wisdome and courage to draw on your strength as we offer your love to others. Amen.
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