The parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10 speaks deeply to me. Multiple readings brought a consciousness about the traveler on the Bloody Way, the name given to that dangerous stretch between Jerusalem and Jericho.
I was the one who left the safety of God’s presence to go my own way. I left His will and His protection. I knew the danger. I walked away.
Life without Him took its toll. Disappointment and rebellion stripped me of His robes of righteousness. Sin gouged deep wounds and left me bleeding, wounded, and half dead in my trespasses. Naked and helpless, I was left alone to die.
Regret and fear washed over me as I realized the cost of my choices. Religious organizations, community, and church passed by. I thought they could save me. No. They passed by with rules, creeds, laws, and standards that could not save me.
I cried out in desperation. And then the unexpected. The One I left, rejected, ignored saw my plight. The best came first. Compassion. I shrank back when I saw Him. I expected judgment and retribution from the one I rejected.
He came to me! To where I was, naked and bleeding. He knelt to see my wounds. He poured oil to assuage the pain and bring the jagged sides together. The deep gashes would scar – a reminder of my folly. Then wine to cleanse so infection would not overtake me.
He placed His pristine robes around me. My blood stained its perfection. He did not flinch. He took me to a place of healing and I noticed His robes were still perfect. My blood stains were no longer visible.
He PAID for my healing. He rescued me and promised to come back for me. Eternal gratitude will always be my song.
By: Vickie Richey
~ Christ Fellowship