The sermon was on the Good Samaritan, love in action. What does love in action mean? The message was that it means not watching the struggle, but actually getting involved.
The pastor told a story about a little girl who was having dinner at a friend’s house. The friend’s mom asked her if she liked broccoli. The little girl replied enthusiastically, “Oh, yes!” At dinner, broccoli was on the table, but the little girl didn’t eat any. The mom said, “I thought you said you liked broccoli.” The little girl said, “Well, of course I like broccoli but not enough to eat it!”
Are we that way as Christians? We like to be Christians, but not enough to get involved.
Shortly after worship, a single mom was getting her two kids dressed to leave church. Her son had been severely abused by his dad, leaving him brain-damaged. His behavior is challenging to say the least. As his mom put his coat on, the boy fought her—hard. He screamed. He kicked. He screamed some more. The entire time onlookers did just that—LOOKED. All of them had just heard the message about the Good Samaritan and not one asked if they could help.
I was completely frustrated with the group. I watched this woman and my heart ached for her. I left my conversation and walked over. I asked if she wanted my help, and with tears in her eyes, she said, “Yes! Please!” Together, we dressed her son. He still screamed and kicked but now we were a team.
She got ready to walk out and I yelled after her kids that I would see them next Sunday.
People looked at me. I know they were glad I helped her, but the point is everyone should have helped. She should have had a line of helpers.
We can’t just listen to a message on Sunday and then forget the words. It’s not enough. That mom and her son needed the Church, not the stares.
Writing about it now hurts my heart so very much. It’s not always easy to help, but it is what we are called to do.
Love is action. Get active!