Paying The Price

Paying the Price

Luke 10:35, NLT

The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, “Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.”

Setting the Scene

This act of mercy by the Samaritan in Jesus’ parable cost him the time and resources to soothe the man’s wounds. He could have thought, Well, I’ve done what I could and left the man there, bandaged but alone. Instead, he took the man to an inn, where he cared for him through the night. The next day the Samaritan had to be on his way, but the wounded man was still in poor shape. The Samaritan gave the innkeeper money for the bill and promised to pay for additional expenses. The “two silver coins” probably would have paid for a few weeks’ lodging. He wanted the wounded man to be looked after carefully. And all of this was done anonymously; as far as we know, the Samaritan wasn’t even paid with a thank-you note. His compassion cost him quite a bit.

Getting Personal

What might helping someone in your neighborhood cost you? What about a need you hear about in another country?

When has cost been a factor in whether or not you help someone?

Often we think compassion is merely an emotion, feeling sorry or bad for a person in need. Certainly feelings are involved, but true compassion translates into actions. And those actions will cost us something. But think of what Jesus’ compassion cost him: He gave everything to reach his people—to reach you and meet your most profound needs. This kind of unselfish sacrifice was Jesus’ answer for what it means to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27, NLT).

Talking to God

Admit to the Lord that sometimes the cost in time and resources has kept you from meeting others’ needs. Ask the Lord to help you be creative in seeing how much you have to share.