In reading this morning I was provoked by this thought that I came across, it is found in the story of the Good Samaritan. We know the story well where Jesus is being tested by a person seeking to justify himself.

Luke 10:29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?”

We must ask ourselves this question, as was this man who had just quoted to Jesus the Word of God from Leviticus.

Leviticus 19:18 You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.

So here’s the thought, we must look at this mans motive in asking this question, we might immediately think, Ok who is the person who I need to help? Who’s in my immediate sphere of influence that I have a responsibility towards, and great that’s the intent of the verse so let’s move on right? No.

This man was justifying himself, so here’s the twist, the thought, and I wonder whether subconsciously we do the same? Do we take the word and adjust it slightly to suit ourselves, this man didn’t see any fault in himself nor any conviction to reach out to another, so what is he really saying? He is asking Jesus who is my neighbour that I should expect to receive something from him?

Wow

So many people come with an issue, an expectation of supply and need and that somehow it’s about my needs being met, it’s about people agreeing with me and doing things that I approve of, rather than saying to themselves I know this place isn’t perfect but how can I contribute to make it a better place realising that it is never about me getting anything but it’s about serving others.

Read the story and ask yourself the question!

Do I need to tell you the question? I hope not bit just in case you’re now asking yourself what is the question.

For me it’s this.

Is it really all about ME?