WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?

Perhaps the lessons taught to the children during VBS are more needed by us who are adults. Of the parable Jesus taught in Luke 10:25-37 to the lawyer who asked the question, “Who is my neighbor?” all of the characters are adults.

How many of us have ‘passed by on the other side’ like the priest and the Levite of that story, when we have seen someone in need, perhaps thinking, “I’m too busy”, or “I can’t afford to get my clothes soiled before my appointment”, etc.? All of the excuses that the priest and the Levite might have had, the Samaritan could also have had.

What applies to one in need of physical care also applies to those in need of spiritual care. The scripture tells us, “Brethren, even if a man be overtaken in any trespass, ye that are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of gentleness; looking unto thyself, lest thou also be tempted” (Gal. 6:1). How often do we criticize a fallen brother rather than help him? “...Let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10). Remember, “To him that knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). There is so much good each of us can do, and that God wants us to do! He takes note of everything we do, and of everything that we had opportunity to do and did not do, and we will be rewarded accordingly (Matt. 25:31-46). There will be no slackards in Heaven.

Love you, David V. Fultz