"But a Samaritan, who was on a journey, came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion, and came to him and bandaged up his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them; and he put him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn and took care of him.” (v.33-34)
The story of “The Good Samaritan” always blesses me whenever I read it. A Samaritan, a vowed enemy of the Jew, felt compelled to care for his fellow man and see to his provision until healed.
We’ve all probably been on both sides of this story at one time or another, and in both situations we end up feeling blessed because of the love expressed. However, have you ever been the passer by? The one who kept going and did not stop to help?
This passage also convicts me because I have passed by those in need; sometimes because I’m in a hurry, “Someone else will help them”, or I see them on a cell phone so, “Help is coming”, or “I’m not going to give that person any money, he’ll just spend it on booze.”
While we can’t help everyone in every situation of need, I believe we can to be a good neighbor to those God puts directly into our path. It may come in the form of a hug or a shoulder, a ride or a car, a room or a home. You cannot touch your neighbor’s heart with anything less than your own. Therefore, as Jesus said to the young lawyer at the end of this story, “Go and do likewise.” Be that good Samaritan.
The Truth: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)
