Crossing Boundaries: Kindness to Those Unlike Us
Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church
September 7th Sermon, Day 3
The parable of the Good Samaritan remains one of the most powerful stories about kindness ever told. What makes it so revolutionary is not just the act of helping someone in need – it's who helped whom. A Samaritan helping a Jew was unthinkable in that cultural context. These groups shared centuries of mutual hatred and distrust.
Yet in Jesus' story, it was the Samaritan who stopped to help when the Jewish priest and Levite – the victim's own countrymen – passed by. The Samaritan didn't just offer minimal assistance; he bandaged wounds, transported the injured man, paid for his lodging, and promised to return to check on him. This was extravagant kindness that crossed every social boundary.
This parable challenges us to examine our own boundaries of kindness. Who have we deemed unworthy of our compassion? Where have cultural, political, or religious differences become barriers to showing Christ's love? True kindness, as Jesus defines it, doesn't stop at comfortable boundaries.
The most powerful witness we can offer in our divided world is kindness that transcends expected lines. When we show genuine care to those who might consider us enemies or who hold views opposite to ours, we demonstrate the revolutionary nature of Christ's love. This isn't easy – it may even make our own community uncomfortable – but it's the kindness Jesus modeled and calls us to practice.
Bible Verse
"But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion." - Luke 10:33
Reflection Question
What boundaries or prejudices might be limiting your expression of kindness, and how might God be calling you to cross those lines to show His love to someone unexpected?
Quote
The Samaritan is the one who is able to rise above the bigotry and prejudices of centuries and show mercy and compassion for the injured Jew after the Jew's own countrymen passed him by.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I've limited my kindness to those who are like me or agree with me. Give me Your eyes to see beyond differences and Your heart to respond with compassion. Help me to be brave enough to cross boundaries with kindness, even when it's uncomfortable or misunderstood. Amen.
