Day Four: Is It Too Late for the Priest?

I find Van Gogh's painting so encouraging. The priest and Levite have walked past the injured man, but they are still "in the picture." They are continuing their journeys, yet, there is still time for them to help others. Perhaps they will encounter another beaten and bloodied traveller who needs their help. They may become inspired by the actions of the Good Samaritan, so when they next come across a casualty along the road, they are ready to help.

Van Gogh has depicted the Good Samaritan struggling to lift the injured man upon his horse. What if he can't manage it? Might he call out to the priest and Levite and ask them to help him? There's every chance they may respond differently this time.

Yesterday, we asked God to highlight the issue He wants us to focus on. As God begins to answer the words we prayed, we might feel guilty for not responding earlier. However, it's not too late; just like the priest and Levite in the parable, we can still turn around and make a difference.

Look for others already involved in doing good works for the people or cause God is calling you to. You may be able to join them in what they're doing, or you may need to duplicate their efforts elsewhere. Either way, you are not alone. Rally with others to make a difference, and never feel it is too late. God is patient, kind, and ready to welcome us back into His Kingdom and will. He looks favourably upon those who return to Him.

Reflect: Are you continuing to listen out for God's explicit invitation to get involved in helping others? Is there anyone already doing this work? How can you assist them?

Prayer: Faithful God, we thank You for Your patience. You are always ready to welcome us back, even when we walk away from Your good and perfect will. As we return to help those we have previously overlooked and ignored, we ask You to be with us and to surround us with other helpers. Thank You, and Amen.