INTRODUCTION

Jesus Tells About the Good Samaritan

Bible Point

Jesus says to love others as ourselves.

Key Verse

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32).

Big Picture

Love others in practical ways.

Jesus Tells About the Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25-37

It’s possible to be unkind one moment and kind the next. We are growing and changing in many ways, and our feelings can shift quickly. This week, we will learn that no matter how we feel, God calls us to love others. As we go through these devotionals, we can practice choosing kindness, patience, and love in every situation.

PLANTING THE SEED

The parable of the good Samaritan had a lot of surprises. First, the priest and the Levite in the story turned out to be not-so-nice guys. Second, who would have expected the person others looked down on socially to be the only one to help the person who was hurt? It goes to show you really can’t judge a book by its cover. It’s not your occupation or what other people think of you that’s important. It’s what’s on the inside that counts—that’s what matters to God! (Luke 10:25-37)

• When has someone been kind and compassionate to you? What was that like?

• What does it mean to love others?

• How can you be a good Samaritan to someone this week?

FAMILY FUN

Jesus’ parable of the good Samaritan is a “natural” for a fun and easy drama involving the whole family. First, figure out who will play the following parts: The man on his way to Jericho, the robbers, a priest, the Levite, and the Samaritan. Also ask for someone to read Luke 10:25-37 as a “narrator,” someone to read the words of Jesus, and someone else to read the words of the teacher of the law. (Some family members may have to cover more than one part of the drama.) Act out the parable in your living room. Afterward, talk about how your family can live out the message of the parable.

READY, SET, GROW!

Love others in a practical way this week:

• Come up with a way to show love to someone in need. Buy that person lunch, help out with homework, or just spend time listening to them. Do something meaningful that will require your time and effort.

• Is there someone you’ve had problems getting along with? Talk over your differences, send that person a note, or just set aside your differences and encourage them. If the situation feels unsafe or complicated, talk with a trusted adult first.

• Sometimes the most difficult people to love are the ones in our own families. Find a way this week to show Jesus’ love to a family member who you’ve had trouble getting along with.