Scripture: Luke 10:25-26
A legal expert stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to gain eternal life?” Jesus replied, “What is written in the Law? How do you interpret it?”
Thought for the Day: This is the conversation that will eventually lead to the telling of the parable we call, The Good Samaritan. Jesus was asked a question, and Jesus answered the question with a question. It is a marvelous technique for teaching, and though many of us may admire the technique, we do not use it. We are quick to tell people exactly what they must do to gain eternal life, how they are to do this, when they are to do this, and what color socks they need to be wearing as they follow the 36 step plan that we set before them. Jesus, on the other hand, did none of that. Even when pushed by the legal expert, he told a story – a parable that was more than some dry single meaning allegory. The tendency to impose our beliefs often comes from insecurities around our beliefs. If we can get someone else to agree, then we feel a confirmation. Jesus took an entirely different approach. He modeled, told stories, planted seeds, listened and gave space for people to discover God for themselves. What a novel concept!
Prayer: In the same way that you loved me – both in my moments of understanding and moments of complete foolishness – I pray that such love be mine to share. Your Gospel was not only embodied it what you said, but in the space you gave me to explore for myself. Amen.
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