Pastor Larry Sundin, Rock Springs Church
When was the last time you were surprised by an act of kindness? Jesus illustrated what kindness looks like when he told the story of the Good Samaritan. In the story, Jesus tells us of a traveler who is beaten, robbed, and left for dead. First, a priest comes by who deliberately goes to the other side of the road to avoid getting involved. Next, a Levite comes by and does the same. But then Jesus says, A Samaritan, as he traveled, came to where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. “Look after him,” he said, “and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.” I’ve always loved this story because it shows us kindness in action. Think about all the intentional acts of kindness in this story. Jesus tells us there are six.
First, He allowed this man’s need to interrupt his schedule: “He went to him.” To him there was nothing on his schedule more important than going to help a fellow human being. The first step in kindness is the step to get involved. And he took that step and went to the man. Next, He did what he could with what he had: “He bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine.” Most of the time God has already given us what we need to help those in need. And most of the time, it doesn’t take much. What it takes is a willingness to get your hands dirty—to be hands of help in a tough situation. Third, He was willing to be inconvenienced: “He gave him a ride to an inn.” He loaded this guy into his Lexus and didn’t worry if the upholstery might get stained or if he’d be late to his next appointment. Fourth, His kindness got him personally involved. “He stayed with him and cared for him.” He took a personal interest in his well-being. He spent time with him and gave him the kind of care he might receive from a nurse. Fifth, His kindness cost him something: “He paid for his extended care.” It cost him about the equivalent of two days wages. The average daily wage in Arizona is roughly $225. Finally, His kindness was willing to see it through to the end: “He promised to return and pay for any further expenses.”
This kind of kindness is rare today. But it doesn’t have to be. It only takes one person who is willing to be used to help another. Could that be you? Are you willing to step out of your comfort zone and show a little kindness? I can only imagine how Robson Ranch might be impacted if we all took the initiative to spread a little kindness. Or maybe you need to experience some of that kindness yourself. And if that’s you, we invite you to join us for our Back to Church Sunday at Rock Springs on Oct. 11. You see, we are all just a bunch of ordinary people who’ve experienced the extraordinary kindness of God and it’s our hope to share His kindness with you. Why not come and experience God’s kindness for yourself? We gather for worship in the Ballroom every Sunday at 9 a.m., and we’d love to have you join us.