The Upper Room Devotion for Thursday, July 4, 2024, was written by Roza Tyu of North Carolina.
Scripture
25 Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he said, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read there?" 27 He answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." 28 And he said to him, "You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live." 29 But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" 30 Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, "Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.' 36 Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" 37 He said, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."
Luke 10:25-37 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
I moved from Moscow to North Carolina to live with my daughter and son-in-law. Since they worked many hours, I often stayed home alone. Three months after moving I didn't have any new friends because I didn't speak English. Missing my extended family and church community in Russia, I was depressed. Then on my morning walk one day, I met a neighbor named Nancy whose heart is full of love for those in need. Even though my English was limited, Nancy showed interest in me. She called my daughter, and with Nancy's encouragement, my daughter enrolled me in an English course.
Nancy became a good Samaritan to me, offering friendship, support, transportation to church, and help with English. The Bible teaches us to love and care for those who suffer as we would care for ourselves. Suffering is not always easy to spot, and it comes in many forms. But the Holy spirit guides us as we look for ways to care for others. Loving your neighbor includes acknowledging those in need and caring for them with love.
Thought for the Day
How is God calling me to help my neighbor?
Author's Prayer
God of love, help us to acknowledge and care for others as you care for us. Amen
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