August 4, 2019 - Luke 10:25-37 - "Love without Loopholes"

Sunday’s Focus - Jesus has a way with stories, doesn’t he? An expert on the law approaches him, wanting to justify himself from a legal point of view. “What must I do?” he asks. Jesus repeats what God’s law of love demands. Then he tells an unforgettable story to show how hard it is to keep God’s law. Legally, it cannot be done! Yet Jesus’ story goes further. He earns God’s “not guilty” verdict for us himself. Through his work you are justified by grace and set free from the law’s threats. Then the same Holy Spirit who creates faith in Jesus produces its fruit. The Spirit starts with love for God and, yes, love for your neighbor, whoever that might be. Go and do this, Christian!