It was a trick question, of course. The lawyer summed up the Law in a few pithy words—”Love God, and love your neighbor.” Jesus agreed: “Do this, and you shall live.” But who can actually do this? Who among us never fails in loving God or our neighbors? No wonder the lawyer wanted to justify himself!
But that isn’t possible. We are broken, sinful people, in desperate need of help. In God’s eyes, each of us is just like that man who fell among robbers—stripped, beaten, and left for dead. Who will help us?
Jesus will. Like that kind-hearted Samaritan, He comes to us, binds up our wounds, and takes us to safety. He stays with us and cares for us. He provides for us and gets us back on the road to life—not with mere money, but at the price of His own suffering and death on the cross. And He promises to return for us. Jesus Himself is our eternal life.
THE PRAYER: Lord, thank You for having mercy on me. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
* Have you ever helped a stranger you found in trouble? If so, why?
* What moved Jesus to help you?
* Would you rather be justified by your own efforts or by Jesus? Why?
Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.