The Lord Jesus’ Final Question
Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that showed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise. Luke 10:36,37
Read Psalm 25:1-8
After telling the parable, the Lord Jesus confronted the lawyer with another question: Which of the three do you think was a good neighbour to the man who had been beaten by thieves? Do you notice the difference between this question and the earlier one asked by the lawyer? He had asked the Lord: Who is my neighbour? But now the Lord Jesus asks: Who demonstrated that he was a neighbour to the man who had been beaten and robbed? This question was much more direct and to the point. The Lord brings various people into our lives that we might show love and compassion to them, lending a helping hand where needed when possible.
Remarkably, the lawyer understood it was the Samaritan who was a true neighbour to the man in need, yet he could not bring himself to state his nationality; in answering Jesus’ question he merely said, He that showed mercy on him. The Lord then gave a stunning command: Go and do thou likewise.
Maybe there are some who in all honesty respond: But I cannot and do not want to do so. If that is true of you, go to the Lord in prayer. Lay it all before Him, for He is able to make you both willing and able in the day of His power. Those who humbly fall on their knees before the Lord shall be taught by Him and will learn His ways.
Thought: How do you treat your neighbours?
Psalter 415:4 (based on Psalm 25) Good and upright is Jehovah In His dealings evermore. Sinners are by Him instructed In the way untrod before. He will ever guide the meek In His judgments true and holy; Teach His ways to those who seek With a contrite heart and lowly.