Who is my neighbor?

"If someone has enough money to live well

and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion--

how can God's love be in that person?

Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other,

let us show the truth by our actions.  Our actions will show that

we belong to the truth."  1 John 3:17-19a (New Living Translation)

 

Today, we will drive out to Mendota to deliver groceries to three farmworker families who have been devastated by the lack of farm work.  When I talked to Amanda Ellington about the project last week, she expressed her keen desire to help out because, as she said, "I grew up on the Westside."

 

Next Sunday, Casey Sue will explain our Thanksgiving Basket project, where we will be assembling baskets for families who are not able to provide for all their own needs this holiday season.

 

When Jesus was asked the question, "Who is my neighbor?" he told the story of "The Good Samaritan", who showed mercy to a Jewish man who had been robbed and left on the side of the road by bandits.  The man's own countrymen passed him by, out of sheer busyness or self-absorbtion, while the Samaritan, who Jews hated, showed compassion, dressed the man's wounds and took him to get medical help and safe lodging.  At the end of this powerful story, Jesus asked his questioner, "Now which of these three men would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?"

 

"The man replied, 'The one who showed him mercy.'

 

"Then Jesus said, 'Yes, now go and do the same.'" Luke 11:36,37 (New Living Translation)

 

We will be visiting our neighbors this afternoon, out in Mendota. Thanks to all who are sending along well wishes in the form of flour or oil or sugar. Help us visit our neighbors at Thanksgiving, as well.

--Posted by Mama O.