Devotion: Go and Do Likewise
Please review the scripture from this weekend: Luke 10:29-37
In this well-known parable, Jesus challenges us to rethink the way we view others. The story of the Good Samaritan begins with a question posed to Jesus by a lawyer: “Who is my neighbor?” The lawyer wanted to justify himself, perhaps seeking a narrow definition of who deserves compassion. But Jesus, as always, expanded the definition beyond what anyone might have expected.
The man in need, beaten and left for dead on the side of the road, was someone the priest and the Levite, who are religious figures, passed by without helping. Their duties and religious observances apparently took priority over immediate needs right in front of them. It’s easy to imagine they were too busy, too focused on their own concerns, or perhaps they felt that helping would be inconvenient. Their inaction, however, left the man in even greater danger.
Then came the Samaritan, a member of a group despised by the Jews, who showed compassion where the others had not. Jesus does not simply describe the Samaritan’s actions; He emphasizes his attitude of compassion. The Samaritan saw the man’s suffering, cared for him, and went above and beyond what might have been expected. Not only did he care for the man’s immediate needs, but he also made provisions for the future, ensuring that the innkeeper would continue to care for him.
The “go and do likewise” command is not simply a moral directive. It is the invitation to participate in the very life of God, who is constantly moving toward the world in love and mercy. It is to step into the rhythm of His Kingdom, where love is not a passive feeling but an active force that heals, restores, and brings life.
Four elements that are found in the Good Samaritan passage that call us to serve:
- See with Compassion: The Samaritan didn’t simply notice the man in need; he “saw him” in his suffering. The first step in serving others is to truly see the needs around us. We live in a busy world, and it’s easy to pass by others, too focused on our own tasks or struggles. Yet, Jesus calls us to open our eyes and hearts to the needs of those around us.
- Act with Mercy: Mercy goes beyond mere sympathy. It moves us to action. The Samaritan’s compassion led him to take immediate steps to help. In the same way, we are called to move past feeling pity and take tangible steps to meet the needs of others.
- Serve Without Expectation: The Samaritan’s generosity wasn’t just a quick, one-time act. He went the extra mile, ensuring that the man would continue to receive care. Serving others isn’t always convenient, and it may not always result in a “thank you” or recognition. Jesus reminds us that the reward for serving others isn’t found in accolades but in the honor of being His hands and feet in the world.
- A Call to Everyone: Jesus ends the parable with a simple command: “Go and do likewise.” This is a call not just to the religious leaders or to those who feel qualified, but to everyone. Whether we are young or old, rich or poor, well-educated or not, all are invited into the mission of serving others. We are all called to be neighbors, and to love those around us as Christ has loved us.
Who in your life needs help today? How can you be a neighbor to them, even if it is inconvenient or difficult? Are there areas in your life where you’ve been walking by, too busy or too indifferent to show mercy? Jesus calls us to follow the example of the Good Samaritan—may we respond with hearts of compassion, ready to serve those in need.
Father, we thank You for the great mercy You have shown to us in Jesus Christ. We confess that often we have passed by those in need, caught up in our own concerns or unaware of the suffering around us. Open our eyes to see as You see and give us hearts filled with compassion. Teach us to love our neighbors as ourselves, to serve without counting the cost, and to follow the example of Jesus in every area of our lives. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, through us. In the name of Jesus, Amen
Written by Matt Clay
Matt and his wife Joanna have two young daughters, Emery and Madisen. The Clay’s have been members of the Sheridan community since 2014. Matt’s spiritual growth has been influenced by the teaching of the late Dallas Willard, which led Matt to pursue an M.A. in Spiritual Formation from Spring Arbor University. Matt works full-time in the financial industry and believes that God has called him to be a steward of His grace and presence in the marketplace.
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