The well-known parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) touches us and teaches us every time we hear it. After a priest and a Levite each pass by a man laying on the road, beaten and half dead, a Samaritan stopped and showed the man mercy.
There are many challenges in this parable. The lawyer challenged Jesus about how to inherit eternal life. The priest, the Levite and the Samaritan were challenged with a choice of helping or not. As he finished the parable, Jesus challenged the lawyer with a question, asking which of the three was the neighbor to the man on the road.
We are challenged every day with who we perceive to be our neighbor, and if, when and how we should respond. How often, in a week’s time, are we like the priest and the Levite, “passing by” a neighbor in need?
Jesus defined it for us…everyone and anyone in need is our neighbor. As he did with the lawyer, he commands us also, to “go and do likewise”. Notice those who are vulnerable and respond with compassion. Be open to others who might help us, if only we let them. And in doing that, you will honor God and live with Him eternally.
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