Whose Side Of The Road?

care - Whose Side of the Road?

Be kind and compassionate to one another. Ephesians 4:32, NIV

Christ is the ultimate Good Samaritan. He cares for the neglected, is concerned for the unnoticed, has compassion for the wounded, and generously provides for those in need.

I (David) am so glad that Jesus didn’t “pass by on the other side of the road” as I lay there in helpless, hopeless pain. I’m so glad He didn’t just shout, “Take care of it yourself,” or “Sorry, but I can’t stop now. I’m in a hurry.”

Leaving my side of the road to come to yours is what caring is all about. I learned that too long after I got married. For too many years I didn’t participate enough in parenting our children. From my selfish perspective, raising the children was Teresa’s side of the road. I was ready to bark orders or criticize Teresa’s parenting, but not to do anything helpful. I was also too busy to leave my side of the road when it came to helping out around the house. In my mind, doing dishes was Teresa’s side of the road. Instead of helping her, I would hurry after dinner to my place on the sofa and take care of my paperwork.

Through a great deal of stress and painful talks, God began to get my attention and change my attitude. Slowly, I began to join Teresa in parenting our children and managing the daily tasks of our household. I moved to her side of the road and worked with her on a plan to encourage our kids to do their chores. I moved to her side of the road when I cleared all the dishes from the table and loaded them into the dishwasher.

In what specific ways will you move from “your side of the road” and care for your spouse today?