God provided the Israelites with manna in the desert every day for 40 years. He could have made life easier. Clearly he wanted something.

Many parables were crafted to surprise, much like the punchline of a good joke. A retelling of the Good Samaritan offers fresh perspective.

Jesus knew that Judas was going to betray him long before that final meal, yet let himself be captured. He chose to save us, not himself.