September 27, 2015:  SOAP #2124:

Scripture:  Luke (NIV) 10:36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

Observation:   This question asked of Jesus was, “Who is my neighbor?”  Jesus told a story about a man who was robbed and left to die. A religious leader passed by but did not stop to help.  A religious worker passed by but also did not stop.  But a stranger came by and stopped!  He bound up his wounds.  He took him to a safe place to stay.    Jesus did not congratulate the expert for giving the right answer; He told him to act in the same way.

Application:    The question is not if I know what a good neighbor is, but if I do what a good neighbor does?.  It is not enough to know the truth, I must live the truth.   Do I show mercy and go out of my way to help?

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, continue to bring the words of Jesus to mind.  Show me how to live like they are true.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!