The predominant reason why most of the world sees the religion of Christianity as a hypocritical farce is because it is! You cannot have a relationship based on religion – don’t believe me just look at what Jesus was trying to say in this simple little parable and ask yourself:
Are you on the right side of the road?
Do you know of anyone who is too busy doing to Love?
Does it matter the source of the Love?
Who is your neighbor?
“In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.” – Luke 10:30-34
This story is so familiar that I have heard versions of it in almost every country I been to and on the surface it has some great lessons. But what if we look at this story- Grace-Fully!
Why is it that the two “most righteous” parties here didn’t have time and in fact went on the other side of the road to keep from Loving this man and showing mercy?
Could it be that in many cases the same situation exists today?
When was the last time a person who was openly afflicted with HIV was in your church?
Love has come and it applies to all, yes even those filthy Samaritans as the Jews would say. Love flows through all people yes even those who are our enemy and that Love can be the beginning of a break down in animosity that can open the future between two groups like never before.
Love doesnt look to put its name on something or to get gratitude. The Samaritan never left his name and never waited for the man to say “thank you.” Another cool thing here is that Love doesnt look for a receipt but is always ready to give more.
God calls on us to make a huge neighborhood by Loving just like Christ Loved and that can only be done on a supernatural basis.
Amen bro!
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you shall love others, love as I have loved you.” I don’t know if I got the wording right, but my point is quite clear. To love others. Period!
I believe that is what is at the heart of everything Jesus said and taught. TO LOVE!!! Pure and simple!
“How we love others is how we show our love for God. And how we show our true character.” (anonymous)
Love God, love others! Why do so many have a problem with this?
I believe it was Paul who wrote in 1 Corinthians 13, simply, “If you have not love, you are nothing.” Prior to this he says, (paraphrased) With all that you can do and say, but have not love, you are just an endless clanging of a gong.
I believe if we only learn one thing in life, to love, then we know all that we need to.
I also believe that love is the meaning of life and the key to living a meaningful life.
Thanks Bob.
Thank you for sharing brother!
A spiritual mentor of mine once said “The reason why so many people struggle with Grace is because
they cant fathom how a Love like God’s could possible be real!” I wholeheartedly agree!