Today we see two well-known passages: the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the account of Jesus visiting Martha and Mary. Together, they emphasize loving God and neighbor and finding our priorities in Christ.

The parable begins with a lawyer asking Jesus how to inherit eternal life. Jesus turns the question back to him, affirming the greatest commandments: love for God and love for neighbor. Seeking to justify himself, the lawyer asks, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus responds with the parable, where a Samaritan—despised by the Jews—shows sacrificial love to a wounded man while the religious figures pass by. The Samaritan’s actions reveal that true love transcends boundaries and requires compassion, mercy, and action.

The passage today highlights the nature of true discipleship and the call to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. The disciples’ argument about greatness reveals their misunderstanding of Jesus’ kingdom. Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom is marked by humility and service, using a child as an example. True disciples welcome the lowly, reflecting the heart of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve.

Today we see Luke showcasing Jesus’ authority, the disciples’ role in His mission, and His abundant provision. Jesus sends out the twelve with power and authority over demons and diseases, commissioning them to proclaim the kingdom of God. This marks a pivotal moment in their discipleship, as they move from following Jesus to actively participating in His mission. Their instructions to rely on God’s provision challenge them—and us—to trust Him fully.

This passage demonstrates Jesus’ authority over spiritual powers and the nature of true discipleship. When Jesus’ mother and brothers arrive, He teaches that true family in the kingdom of God is defined by hearing and obeying God’s Word. This redefinition of family emphasizes that discipleship is rooted in a spiritual relationship with Christ, marked by obedience and faith.

The calming of the storm reveals Jesus’ divine power over creation. The disciples’ fear and amazement underscore their growing realization of His identity. Jesus rebukes their lack of faith, reminding us that trusting Him is essential, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. This scene foreshadows the peace Jesus brings to all who trust in Him, even in the midst of life’s storms.

Luke 8:1-18 emphasizes the transformative power of God’s Word and the responsibility of those who hear it. Jesus begins by highlighting the expanding reach of His ministry, as He proclaims the good news of the kingdom with His disciples and faithful followers, including women who have been healed and redeemed. This inclusion underscores the radical nature of Jesus’ kingdom, where grace transforms and empowers all who trust in Him.

The story of the sinful woman anointing Jesus reveals the depths of His grace and the proper response to His forgiveness. In the home of Simon the Pharisee, the woman’s actions are an outpouring of gratitude for the forgiveness she has received. Her tears, costly perfume, and humble service display a heart transformed by grace, in stark contrast to Simon’s cold and self-righteous demeanor.

In this passage, often called the "Sermon on the Plain," Jesus teaches what it means to live as citizens of His kingdom. The blessings and woes He pronounces are countercultural, turning worldly values upside down. The poor, hungry, and grieving are blessed, not because of their condition itself, but because they rely on God and His promises. Meanwhile, those who find satisfaction in earthly wealth, comfort, and approval are warned of impending judgment.

Luke 6:1-16 highlights Jesus’ authority over the law, His compassion, and His sovereign choice in calling His disciples. The controversy over the Sabbath reveals the Pharisees’ legalism and misunderstanding of God’s purpose for the law. When Jesus’ disciples pluck grain on the Sabbath, He asserts His lordship over the Sabbath, declaring, "The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath." Jesus reminds the Pharisees that the Sabbath was given as a blessing, not as a burden, and that works of necessity and mercy align with God’s intent.