The road that runs between Jerusalem and Jericho is a narrow path that rises high above a canyon below, with steep cliffs on the other side of the canyon.

This regular route between two important cities is the setting of one of Jesus’ most famous stories: a man is attacked and left for dead. When the religious people see the injured man, they “passed by on the other side” (LUKE 10: 31-32).

Instead of being examples of love and kindness, these two religious leaders went to the extreme to avoid the injured man by going down into the canyon and back up the “other side.”

But when a Samaritan saw the man, despite the long-standing hatred between Jews and Samaritans, he went to the extreme to take care of him. He bandaged and treated the man’s wounds, took him to an inn and paid for all his expenses (VV.34-35).

Jesus wants us to act kindly when we meet suffering people (V.37). Instead of avoiding them, may we follow the Samaritan’s example of love and concern.

By: Lisa M. Samra

To Pray About . . .

Father, if I meet someone in need today, please give me strength to offer them love and kindness