This Sunday, I’ll be teaching the “red letter” words of Jesus found only in the Gospel of Luke. It’s about an unexpected neighbor!
When an expert in the law asks Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus responds with a story so radical and unexpected, it would have completely shocked His audience. The Good Samaritan reveals a love that goes beyond labels, prejudice, and religious boundaries.
Take a moment to read and reflect on Luke 10:30–37.
Who in your life is an outsider?
An outcast?
Overlooked?
An enemy or stranger?
Unloved or unwanted?
Struggling?
I often “see the need” to share compassion, but still pass by. Seeing and knowing about a need is one thing. Responding and acting to serve that need is often my challenge.
Jesus is saying to me that my neighbor may not look like me, agree with me, or belong to my circle. The Samaritan moved toward the need and pain, not away from it. He changed his schedule, opened his wallet, and used his energy to bring healing.
Mānoa compassion became visible through action. YIKES! Sometimes I’m like the priest or Levite — busy, distracted, or hesitant. The question is not, “Who deserves my love?” but, “Will I choose to love?”
What’s your observations of this parable? What is Jesus saying to you?
