An Oasis:
On a recent trip to South Wales, Rachel and I were visiting some good friends, and in the middle of our conversation we began to reflect upon the parable of the Good Samaritan.
I’m not certain if you’re familiar with the story, but here’s the bare bones.
At one time, there was a man travelling alone, in the middle of nowhere.
On route, he was attacked by thieves who stole by using violence.
He was a victim of aggression. In fact, they took everything he had, and went off leaving him almost dead!
By chance, a clergyman was travelling along the same road – but when he saw him he cut across to the other side of the road!
Then another religious man appeared, but likewise, he also kept out of the way of the bruised and traumatised man.
Soon afterwards, a good neighbour, who was undertaking a journey along the same road came upon him. When he saw the state of the man, his heart went out to him.
Immediately, he gave him attention and care – soothing and bandaging his wounds.
Then using his own feeble mode of transport, he took him to a hotel. There, he provided him with comfort and relief.
In the morning, he paid the hotel owner, saying, “Look after my friend. If it costs any more, put it on my account – I’ll pay you when I return.”
Hey! What an OASIS experience!
Think about it!
God’s desire for us is to have a life which is active and compassionate.
As we look at the life and ministry of Jesus – He assured us that He never planned to start a new religion, but rather, He wanted to show us a new way of living.
His instruction and encouragement to us – is the same today as it was in days back yonder. Never pass by on the other side!
Rather, be a help to the neighbour, a comfort to the stranger.
Indeed, as we practice living in God’s love – we can appear to many as an OASIS – a shelter serving as a place of safety or sanctuary, a haven, a help in time of need.
But unless we operate within that oasis as a community of neighbours, we’re nothing!
Today, let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love.
And remember, those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.
Now, that’s cool stuff!
Luke 10:30-37
Proverbs 11:25
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