LUKE 10:36-37

"Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”

Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

TO PONDER

I know we have asked this question at LifeWay before, but do you know your neighbours? I mean really know them. you might know their names, but do you know what they do for work? Do you know any of their hobbies or interests? Do you know anything more about them than the fact that they live in the house next door or across the street from you?

Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan (in the preceding verses of todays reading) as an answer to the question, "Who is my neighbour?" and in today's reading we see the answer to that question. Jesus wants us to think bigger to look out into the world and see the opportunities we have to step into the lives of others and bring with us the grace and love of Jesus. But consider this, how are you going to do that if you have not even taken the time to get to know those who live in your own neighbourhood.

Being a neighbour is not about sharing a fence. The way Jesus talks about it is that it's about showing kindness and love to those who we see are in need. This is how God advances his story and adventure with us, as we serve those who we see in need around us. Seeing to the needs of the man attacked by robbers was a large inconvenience to the Samaritan; he went out of his way to find an Inn where the man could rest and recover and He paid the innkeeper from his own purse to ensure the man would be fed and cared for while he recovered.

Being a neighbour may not always be convenient, but it is what we are called to be as those who now find their life in Christ Jesus.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I forget all to easily that you came to earth to be my neighbour. Not just to live in my neighbourhood, but to show me the love and mercy of God the Father. May my life be one which brings and shows that Love and mercy to others. Please help me to be a 'good neighbour' to all those that you call me to love and serve. Amen.

Today's devotion written by Mathew von Stanke, LifeWay Newcastle.