“The Good Samaritan” is a well-known parable. It is clear and easy to understand – be like the Samaritan and show love, empathy, and kindness to others. Simple right? The simple messages are often the most profound yet easily overlooked in our lives. I was reminded of this during my recent marathon attempt when I observed a runner pull up with a cramp and lie alongside the road. “I’m sure he’ll be fine,” I thought as I carried on, preoccupied with achieving my goal time. I looked again and was relieved to see someone else helping him. It was only later in the race, after I had realised I was going to miss my goal time, that I reflected on my earlier actions. The split-second decision to not help was made due to my selfish goal. How often, in our relentless pursuit of our goals, are we blind to the people we can help on the way? We forget who our neighbours are and how we’re called to love them. After the parable, Jesus asked, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10:36-37). Open Bible – http://bit.ly/Luk10v30-37 (Jeremy G)
