How do you love people in need? Whether you grew up going to Sunday School or not, you probably have heard of the phrase, “The Good Samaritan”. It refers to a parable told by Jesus Christ. The point of His story is a foundational example of what it means to be a Christ-follower. Passing on the truth Jesus taught here is huge. Among the many things to teach regarding this parable, let me reduce it to this: “He saw what needed to be done.” Our children need to be encouraged to notice those in need around them and do what needs to be done. The question is not who is my neighbor…it’s how do I act like a neighbor?
People basically agree that it is a good thing to love people who are in need. But, how do you do it? Perhaps this is best answered by asking another question. “How does a person become a ‘journeyman’”? The journey in journeyman refers to a word not often used anymore: “a day’s labor.” It originally referred to a person who has learned a trade through an apprenticeship and works for daily wages. Journeymen began as apprentices and learned through example and opportunity.
You and I have a distinct opportunity to be THE example for others to follow. If you treat others with dignity, people after you will too. If you lean into helping those in need, others will follow your example. It doesn’t get much clearer than 1 Corinthians 11:1 “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”