How can we apply the Samaritan's example in our daily interactions with others? The Scene Jesus Paints Luke 10:30 opens the parable: “Jesus replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among robbers…’.” The road is dangerous, the victim helpless, and two religious figures pass by. Then comes the Samaritan—historically despised by Jews—who stops and rescues the stranger (vv. 33-35). Core Qualities Displayed • Compassion – “But a Samaritan on a journey came upon him; and when he saw him, he had compassion.” (v. 33) • Availability – He interrupts his own itinerary. • Generosity – Uses oil, wine, bandages, his animal, and pays the innkeeper. • Follow-through – Promises to return and settle any remaining cost. Steps to Mirror the Samaritan 1. See people, don’t scan past them. • Proverbs 3:27 “Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act.” 2. Let compassion override prejudice. • John 13:34 “A new commandment I give you: love one another…” 3. Engage personally. • Offer a ride, a meal, a listening ear—meet a concrete need. 4. Give time as well as money. • Galatians 6:10 “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone…” 5. Follow up. • Text later, revisit, keep the relationship alive. Broader Biblical Threads • Matthew 22:39 “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” • 1 John 3:18 “Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.” • James 1:27 “Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows…” Heart-Checks for Every Day • Am I interruptible? • Do I instinctively move toward pain or away from it? • Is my wallet, calendar, and attention span open to God’s detours? Putting It Into Practice This Week • Carry a small “mercy fund” of cash or gift cards for surprise needs. • Schedule one margin hour to serve—visit a shut-in, deliver groceries, babysit. • Learn a neighbor’s name and story; start praying for specific ways to help. • When you see a need, act immediately—don’t delay until conditions feel perfect. Live the road to Jericho daily: notice, stop, give, stay involved. |
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