James 2:8 – If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbour as yourself," you are doing right. (NIV)

Recently, in the Sunday school class that I teach, we were discussing the parable of the Good Samaritan. It's probably the best-known story that Jesus ever told, so, throughout the class, the participants offered their personal ideas and opinions about the parable. It was a good way to share our faith beliefs together, and even though it was a fictional story, Jesus told it in such a way that even thousands of years later, the heart of its message is still as relevant today as it was in His lifetime.

I also like how James called this teaching "the royal law": "Love your neighbour as yourself." This name doesn't mean that it was meant only for kings and queens, princes or princesses; James meant that this came as a command straight for the heart of Christ our King. In other words, it's meant to be taken and practiced seriously by those who consider themselves to be disciples, followers, and servants of Jesus.

Throughout this week, we will all have many opportunities to love our neighbours as ourselves. The real test will come in whether or not we respond to the needs our neighbours have, or whether we will be too busy, causing us to walk by on the other side and discard the royal law.

James 4:17 – Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. (NKJV)

Questions for personal reflection:

What hinders me from helping others in need when I see it? How do I justify my inaction?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, truly teach us Your ways so that we may practice our faith in loving and compassionate deeds. Keep us from being fainthearted, and encourage us to witness to You through our acts of kindness and care. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

John Stuart <traqair@aol.com>
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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