God Conversations
Scripture Reading — Luke 10:25-37
But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Every day at our church anyone can walk in the door and enjoy good conversation and an equally good cup of coffee. It is also not unusual for someone to enjoy a hot bowl of soup.
There is usually a gathering of people on any given day, so we call the conversations that happen “God conversations.” Many of these conversations do not start off with talking about God, but then, usually partway through, the conversation changes. Something about struggles in life or belief in God comes up, and the conversation goes deeper. Some people share that they aren’t sure if they believe in God, and others say they are trying to figure out what other people believe.
I think maybe Jesus inspired those same kinds of conversations in many of the places where he went. I love that he told stories to illustrate his points rather than just giving a quick answer. This challenges us to think through his stories too. The people asking Jesus for answers didn’t always understand, but Jesus always gave them something to think about.
Today’s story in particular teaches us how to care for others equally and to think carefully about who our neighbor is. Perhaps this is a good day to begin a “God conversation” with your neighbor and see where it goes.
Dear God, thank you for conversations that lead us to thinking about you. Teach us to use your stories to help us gain understanding so that we will live our lives the way you call us to. Amen.
About the author — Beth Fellinger
Pastor Beth Fellinger is a wife, mother, and grandmother who has more than 40 years of experience in pastoral ministry. She and her husband, Barry, have created a missional community in their neighborhood called the Ugly Couch Cafe. From serving coffee at a blue picnic table on their front lawn, to praying with neighbors, to hosting faith gatherings on a weekly basis, the Ugly Couch Cafe has grown—and nothing gives Beth greater joy than introducing people to Jesus.
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