Facing Our Samaritans

The people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them. - Luke 9:53-55

There is a scene at the end of episode 1 season 2 of The Chosen, where the Samaritans and Jesus and his follower’s cross paths and there is some hostility (watch the scene HERE). Back in the day, during the Roman Palestinian occupation, Jews and Samaritans despised one another. That said, in this scene James and John articulate their hate for the Samaritans, thus voicing comments of bigotry. John even goes to say that the wrath of God should pummel the Samaritans.

In the scene, Jesus responds with:

The people you hate so much believe in me without seeing miracles. It’s the message, the truth that we’re giving them. And you’re going to get in the way of that because of a few people from a region you dislike are mean to you? That they’re not worthy? What? That you’re much better? You’re more worthy? Well let me tell you something - you’re not. That’s the whole point! It’s why I’m here.

James and John are not very Jesus-y in reaction to the Samaritans - not humble, not loving, and quite hateful.

God cares about and loves everyone in all their humanness.

What stands out to you from the sharing of this scene? How do you do practice humility, love, and grace when someone (or a group of humans) from a different set of circumstances or identities choose to behave in hurtful ways?