I propose that acts of compassion shouldn’t be singled out as uniquely heroic. When we signed up for enlistment into God’s service, we answered the call of duty (not the video game). We shouldn’t consider any kindness, compassion, or courage as “above and beyond.” It’s simply part of the call itself. Helping people in need isn’t necessarily newsworthy. I admire the fireman who, after pulling someone out of a burning building says, “Just doin’ my job.”[i]

I don’t think Jesus intended his story to depict heroism. He merely taught us how to love God and people like he does. We’re servants, not stars of the show.

Here and throughout the Gospels, Jesus stresses that humanitarian and social concern are at the core of the lifestyle that God requires of his disciples. In evangelical circles today, we tend to think that though it’s good to serve the needy, it’s an exceptional, optional brand of spirituality. Somewhere along the line we’ve come to believe that going to church, tithing, and telling others about Jesus are essentials, but serving the underserved is anelective.

Don’t get me wrong; good works won’t earn anyone a ticket to heaven. On the other hand, as Jesus’ half-brother James preached, serving others is an indispensable sign of genuine saving faith.[ii] Our attitudes and actions toward the less advantaged reveals the existence or lack of a truly born-again heart.

[Excerpted from my book: Missional, Merciful, Worshipful...]

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[i] “When you have done every thing you were told to do, [you] should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.’” (Luke 17:10)

[ii] James 1:27