TOPIC: Who Needs My Compassion?
So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves? Luke 10:36
Recommended Reading: Luke 10:25-37
David Jeremiah Daily Devotional Message
Our modern word neighbor derives from two Old English words for “near” and “inhabitant.” In modern terms, it describes a person living near or next door. But we tend to think in more limited terms: a person living near or next door that I know personally.
Jesus’ definition of neighbor was different. It arose out of a conversation with a lawyer who said that the law could be summarized as loving God and loving one’s neighbor (Luke 10:25-37). But the lawyer then asked Jesus what a modern person might ask: “Who exactly is my neighbor?” Jesus answered by telling the story of the Good Samaritan—a man who helped a Jewish stranger who had been beaten and robbed and left for dead by the roadside. Two Jewish religious leaders had passed by without offering help. But the Samaritan man stopped and helped the victim and took care of his needs. This was amazing because Jews and Samaritans were enemies in that day.
Jesus’ point was this: Your neighbor is anyone with a need that you are able to meet. Look for a neighbor whose need you might meet.
People may excite in themselves a glow of compassion…by going and seeking an object that requires compassion. Henry Ward Beecher
Read-Thru-the-Bible: Acts 10 – 11
David Jeremiah Daily Devotional 15th November 2022 Message. Turning Point was founded in 1982 as the broadcast ministry of Dr. David Jeremiah to deliver the unchanging Word of God to an ever-changing world.
