Devotion: How We Change
Please take the time to read Luke 10:21-37
“It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,
A beautiful day for a neighbor
Would you be mine?
Could you be mine?’
Won’t you be my neighbor?”
Words sung by Fred Rogers to children and adults alike on the television show, “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood”. For many years, Mr. Rogers delivered reassuring words in his usual calm and understanding tone. He assured viewers that “I like you just the way you are” and invited all to be his neighbors.
In Sunday’s scripture reading, many of God’s messengers have returned from their missionary journey questioning if they have been heard. An expert in the law challenges Jesus by asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus asks him what is written in the law. The lawyer answers, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Jesus confirms that he is right. But wanting to justify himself the expert asks, ”And who is my neighbor?”
Jesus then finds common ground by sharing the story of the Good Samaritan. A man is robbed and left to die. A priest and Levite pass around him leaving him to suffer. A lowly and despised Samaritan stops and ministers to him and sees that he is cared for. Jesus continues by asking the law expert, ”Which of the three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?” He replies, “The one who had mercy on him.”
Jesus ends the conversation by telling him to “Go and do likewise.”
We, too, can be that merciful neighbor when we are put to the test.
Last Sunday, Pastor Eric gave us three practical steps to follow when we are confronted with challenging situations and those who do not share our views. We can: 1.) Ask questions. 2.) Affirm common ground. 3.) Share a personal story.
By doing this we can find the energy to resolve conflict. When we love our neighbor we can accept our differences and viewpoints in a nonconfrontational manner. In today’s scripture, Jesus asked questions, affirmed common ground and told a story. We can go and do likewise.
“Would you be mine? Could you be mine? Won’t you be my neighbor?”
God of mercy,
Remind us of who is our neighbor and how to treat them. Guide us to show Your merciful love through our actions in today’s world. Give us strength and courage to meet challenges with grace and humility. Amen
Written by Janece Nelson
Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than twelve years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren.
Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.