Giving a Helping Hand

 N.T.#561 "Giving a Helping Hand"

May 30, 2025

Luke 10-Part 6 

LET IT GLOW

Did you know that Luke was the only author of the Gospels to write about events which happened and were recorded in 10:25-18:14?  As I look at John MacArthur's lists of such events and resources, I find this fascinating. We find among these events only mentioned once:

• The story of the Good Samaritan
• Jesus' visit with Mary and Martha
• Woes to the scribes and Pharisees
• Many warnings, such as greed, trusting in wealth, being unprepared for the Son of Man's coming, and divisions;
• Repent or perish;
• Healings, parables, discipleship teachings.

I find this interesting, while unsure why this exclusive revelation to Luke. Matthew, Mark, and John would have been there, too. Yet for His reasons, Jesus chose Luke to write about these events. The doctor complied and obeyed such actions.

You know, there may be certain things which happen in our lives that are exclusive to only us. Do we share the working of God during those times? Do our family members know how Jesus brought us through illnesses, danger, provided for us, and saved our soul? If not, now is the times to share with them before we leave this world.

LET IT GROW

Perhaps you have heard about the parable concerning the Good Samaritan told by Jesus to the self-justifying lawyer. when he asked who his neighbor was. (verse 29) 

A man was attacked and beaten by thieves, stripped of his clothing, wounded, and left for half dead. He left Jerusalem and was on his way to Jericho. This place would have been familiar to the lawyer. 

(It has dry, desert like hills on both sides of the road, at the present. We saw a shepherd with his grazing sheep there.)

A priest and a Levite passed by the needy man, both Jews, too. However they offered no help to this man. 

Then along came a Samaritan man who had compassion on the injured man. He took care of the wounds, took him to an inn, and offered to pay his expenses for care. 

A Samaritan was of a mixed race. He may have experienced hardships before and knew first hand how it was to be in need. So a lending hand was given. This man gave up personal comfort, physical energy, and valuable time to help. 

Jesus asked the lawyer who was the neighbor? Of course, it was the man who showed mercy. Point made. Question answered.

Go and do thou likewise. (verse 37)

That was Jesus instructions to the neighbor and the identification of our neighbor-anyone in need. Sometimes we are rewarded for our kindness. When we help others, we receive help when in need.

LET IT GO

Lord, open our eyes to those in need.

Fill us with compassion to help them.

We need Your mercy, too.