Author Darlene J Conard

“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Hebrews 6:10 KJV

Jesus taught the disciples about stewardship through the Good Samaritan parable. The traveler planned to go to Jericho. Minding his own business as he continued toward his destination, he was attacked. He lay battered, stripped, and hanging on by a single thread. Perhaps he thought, “I will never see what I planned to see in Jericho, nor perform what I desired to do.” The priest and Levites saw him as they walked in the same direction, but sadly, they crossed to the other side of the road.

A concerned Samaritan took time to care for him, pouring oil and wine into his wounds. Not only did he transport the victim, but he also came back to check on him. He even paid for expenses. This parable touches my heart for these reasons: he paid money from his pocket to help a stranger, involved himself with caring intentions, and perhaps the two became lifelong friends. (Read about the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37)

Jesus asked them, “Out of the three, who is the neighbor?” He continued answering, “He who showed mercy. You do the same.”

The keyword in the scripture is “compassion.” Compassion goes a long way. God is concerned that we are wounded. Some of us, I’m sure, wrestle with that pain. Without a doubt, we know someone who is hurting severely within. Do what Christ commanded: have mercy and compassion. Pour into that hurting soul encouraging words. Do what needs to be done before all is lost.

We are living in times when people’s hearts have hardened, and many are hurting. Love like Jesus loves.

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” Hebrews 6:10 KJV

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