“So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine…” Luke 10:34
The story of the Good Samaritan is often taught as a lesson to encourage us to be kind to others. But more than a simple lesson on kindness, the Good Samaritan is a reminder for us, of just how much God longs to care and provide for us even when others pass us by. It communicates the grace (unmerited favor) God freely offers when we are sure we don’t deserve it.
It’s important to understand that Jews were more than hated by the Samaritans in this day and time; they were despised. Yet, this kind Samaritan reached out to save a lost and wounded Jew. This is the story of Jesus and a lost and wounded world. You and I represent that helpless, wounded Jew who had been beaten, robbed and left for dead. And when all seemed lost, a Savior appears on the side of the road. Just like the Samaritan, Jesus appears when we are at our lowest. And when we are left with nothing, he pours on the grace and mercy until it overflows.
We are told that the Good Samaritan “poured on the oil and the wine.” The oil would have been very soothing and comforting. Certainly true of Jesus, who comes to us in our darkest hours and soothes and comforts with His love. But the Samaritan also poured wine onto the open wound to cleanse it. Jesus, not only comforts us, He shows up when we are filled with guilt, to comfort, soothe and pour on the cleansing wine of his love and forgiveness, to forever remove our sin and shame. Rest in the promise that you will never be left alone again. Jesus is The Good Samaritan who longs to heal your every hurt, cleanse your every wound and Give You More!
As always, I’m saving you a seat at Community Family Church!
We love y’all
Pastor Tom
Newsletter Sign-up
Want to receive news and information from Tommy Bates Ministries? Sign-up below, it’s Free!
