Pastor's Corner - 7/1

The parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most familiar stories in the Bible. Most people hear it and conclude that Jesus is teaching us to be kind and help those in need. But before Jesus tells us what to do, he exposes what is in our hearts.

The story begins with a lawyer asking, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He knew God’s law, but instead of admitting that he had fallen short, he tried to justify himself. If we’re honest, we often do the same. We compare ourselves with others and convince ourselves that we’re doing well enough.

Jesus tells this parable to show us that we all fall short. Before we are the Good Samaritan, we are the wounded traveler. Sin has left us broken and unable to save ourselves. Yet Jesus did not pass us by. He came to us in our greatest need. He had compassion on us. He gave his life on the cross to rescue us and bring us back to God.

When we understand the mercy we have received, our hearts begin to change. We no longer love others to earn God’s favor. We love because we have already received his mercy through Christ.

Dear Church, because Jesus did not pass you by, do not pass others by. Rest in his mercy, then extend that same mercy to everyone he places in your path.