Friday, July 25, 2014

By: Rachelle Hitt Bilbo

 

 

Offer a Hand

 

1 John 3:17-18 If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion--how can God's love be in that person? Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.

 

In the account of "The Good Samaritan" found in Luke 10, Jesus tells the story of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who was attacked, stripped of his clothes, beaten and left half dead on the side of the road.

 

What happens next is astonishing. Two ministers walk passed the man yet did NOT stop to assist him. However, a Samaritan sees this man, takes pity on him, bandages and cleans his wounds, brings him to the local inn, cares for him, and then PAYS the innkeeper to help the man recover while he goes back on his journey.

 

WOW! The actions of the Samaritan were remarkable for a few reasons. Theologians say the battered man was likely a Jew. The Jews HATED the Samaritans. Therefore, the Samaritan assisted a man who possibly mistreated him in the past. That still did not stop his kindness. The Samartian was also likely on a business trip--he was busy! Nonetheless, he made sure the man was taken care of even when it involved giving his hard earned money for the innkeeper to watch him.

 

So often, we give WITH limitations. If it costs too much, takes too much time or if it's an inconvenience, we justify walking right passed those in need while still calling ourselves "Christians."

 

In Matthew 25, The Lord says that one day we will be judged for giving (or not giving) the Lord food, drink, clothes, care and shelter. You may think, "How can I do these things when Jesus is not physically walking the earth?"

 

Jesus reveals in verse 40, "... whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me." Likewise, in verse 45, He further explains,"... whatever you DID NOT do for one of the least of these, you DID NOT do for Me."

 

I challenge you today to always give generously and cheerfully. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 says, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously."

 

Dear Lord, Forgive me for times I thought I was too busy or was unwilling to give out of the resources You have blessed me with to help others. Help me to be more sensitive to those in need.

 

I also thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.

 

Reflection: What have you been doing for Jesus lately?