Jesus’ mention of those who should have naturally acted neighbourly towards the ‘half dead’ fellow – the priest and Levite – only serves to emphasise our general neglect of our neighbours, whoever we may be. “Who am I, and to whom is God expecting me to extend neighbourly help?” is the real question.
In his story, in response to the
lawyer’s question, Jesus explicitly states that it is the Samaritan who acted with compassion and mercy towards the man in need, because the Samaritans were absolutely hated and looked down upon by the Jews. It was the Samaritan who stopped, took pity and did something about the man’s life-threatening and hopeless situation.
Neighbourly compassion, mercy and kindness may sometimes come to us from the most unexpected people, causing us
to be taken aback. Is Jesus also teaching us something about those from whom we should graciously accept neighbourly understanding, sympathy and help?
Where does God desire me, his beloved daughter or son, to show compassionate love, understanding and mercy today?
From whom does God wish me to receive sympathetic understanding and help today?
Reflections by Reggie Venter
