As Jesus is challenged to explain what is involved in obeying the greatest commandment, he tells “The Parable of the Good Samaritan.” It is a parable rich in surprises: those expected to show pity display hard hearts while the lowly give and receive unexpected and lavish mercy. Who do you identify with in the parable? This is part of what makes parables so powerful. Guest Preacher, Pastor Armin, will gently remind us that Jesus is not just giving us a comfortable morality tale reminding us to be nice, helpful, generous people. Instead Jesus is proclaiming the good news of the kingdom. God’s grace comes to us through the cross. God’s grace comes to us even—and especially—when we are at our worst, when we struggle in the depths and cry out for help. Even when we cannot or will not cry out, mercy and grace come into our lives through Jesus. So whether you are on the road or in the ditch, Jesus even now is coming for you.
Image: Good Samaritan carved in white stone/marble. Photo copyright © Lucinda Naylor. Used by permission.