You Go and Do Likewise

Daily Scripture Threshing for Today, Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Today's Text: Luke 10:25-37

Key Verse: Luke 10:37 (ESV): "He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.”'"

God wants us to live compassionate in a ruthless and callous world. God himself is compassionate, and calls all His children to emulate his character. God's compassion is exemplified tgrough His empathy and love for humanity, even in the face of their sins. The text before us today exhorts us to be kind and compassionate to others. Jesus, as the express revelation of God demonstrates profound compassion for the suffering and marginalized, setting an example for us all to follow. While acts of mercy or kindness is botbtgw same as faith, it is often associated with and/or as the seed or act of faith: i.e., outward expression of our love for God, and union with Him.

The parable before us charges us to, "go and do likewise," in the same way as the concerned passerby stops to aid the man in distress. It is a subtle but piercing command of Christ to all His followers to extend compassion and practical help to those in need, regardless of their background or their differences. The voice is not a suggestion; it is a divine imperative to live out our faith through tangible acts of love. This means stepping out of our comfort zones, overcoming prejudices, and actively seeking opportunities to alleviate suffering. It demands a heart willing to see beyond labels and recognize the inherent worth of every individual.

Samaritans, traditionally were enemies of the Jews. So, that Jewish man defied societal norms and religious expectations for showing profound mercy to the injured man. He didn't just feel pity; he acted, bandaging wounds, providing transportation, and ensuring continued care. This selfless act stands in stark contrast to the religious leaders who prioritized ritual purity over human suffering. Let us pause to ask ourselves: what does following Jesus means to us? Embracing religiosity and motions of worship over love and radical compassion for one anotherand others? Are we actively looking for the "beaten down and robbed in our world? Are we responding with generosity and genuine love? Can we shed all biases and open our hearts to the needs of all people, just as Jesus taught and commanded us?

Action Steps: Be intentional about looking for opportunities to help those in need, even if they are different from you. Volunteer your time, donate resources, or simply offer a kind word and a helping hand. Challenge your own prejudices and biases and seek to understand the experiences of others, particularly those who are marginalized or overlooked. Pray for the courage and compassion to "go and do likewise," asking God to show you how you can be an instrument of His love in the world.

Quote for the Day: "True faith is not merely believing in good, but actively doing the good, especially to those who can offer nothing in return." (Simon Olatunji #quotablequote)

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the powerful example of the Good Samaritan. Help me to truly understand what it means to "go and do likewise." Give me the eyes to see those in need, the heart to feel compassion, and the courage to act. Break down any seed of hate and prejudices within me and empower me to show Your unconditional love to all people — in Jesus's most glorious name. Amen.

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Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading on today's meditation, read: Proverbs 3:27-28, Galatians 6:10, and James 2:15-17.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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