Stranded. Out of gas. On a highway. At night time. No cell service. Ten miles from the nearest service station. It’s raining. No, make that freezing rain. And windy. Thankfully, I have never been in this situation, but somehow that doesn’t make me unable to relate. I would be pretty desperate. And, frustrated. For less than three dollars, the situation could be completely different. Shakespeare recorded something similar when he had King Richard cry out in desperation, “A horse, a horse! My kingdom for a horse!” We all live our lives at the brink of its tipping point in some manner or the other. “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14).

In this parable, Jesus answers the lawyer in a way that challenges him to quit looking for a loophole in God’s plan of redemption and to embrace it in its entirety by identifying, not only with the Good Samaritan, but with each character. It is our empathy with the injured man that causes us to feel the compassion that raises our ire at the priest and the Levite, all the while acknowledging that we understand too well their motivation in crossing to the far side of the road. We champion the Good Samaritan, but question if we’d follow his example. However, it does not seem that we are often given that opportunity either. But, have you ever considered the innkeeper? He seems rather insignificant. The Good Samaritan provided him with some resources and the assurance of additional repayment on his return and left a battered man in his charge. I wonder if it is not in this relationship where most of us would find an opportunity. Christ, our Good Samaritan, has provided us with His resources with which we are to tend the broken and battered ones He is rescuing until His return. Perhaps it is our diligence in caring for those He brings into our lives that provide us the opportunity to serve Him. Whether it is $3.00 for a gallon of gas or an actual horse, little can often mean a lot.

“Help one person at a time and always start with the person nearest you.” - Mother Teresa

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God to help you be a faithful steward of your time, talents, possessions, and relationships. Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you have. Intercede for your local, state, and national governments. Pray for spiritual revival in the nation and offer prayers regarding any current events and concerns.