Compassion in Action: Luke 10:30-37

Luke 10:36-37: 36 “Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?” 37 And he said, “The one who showed mercy toward him.” Then Jesus said to him “Go and do the same.” 

In the 10th chapter of Luke, Jesus teaches this parable. We affectionately refer to it as the parable of the “Good Samaritan”. In this parable, a man is beaten and robbed by robbers, and left on the side of the road. A priest and a Levite passed by him instead of helping him. Now these were 2 people who would have been highly respected in Jewish society. Then a Samaritan passes by. This man would not have been respected in Jewish society. Regardless of this truth, he helps the man on the side of the road. 

This story really breaks down some barriers. It breaks down the animosity between the Jews and the Gentile culture of the Samaritans. It breaks down the barrier between the helpless and the potential helpers. This story goes to show that being a neighbor to those around you transcends cultural boundaries and barriers. 

As Jesus’ parables always did, this story causes us to reflect on ourselves. Who would we be? The priest, the Levite, the Samaritan? Think about that. Often I feel as if we lean away from helping.

We see a person in need on the side of the street. Instead of lending a helping hand, we say “Why don’t they just get a job?” or something to that effect. Put yourself in their shoes. If you were them, how would you want to be treated? Would you want someone to be a *metaphorical* priest or Levite towards you? Or would you want someone to step up and be a good Samaritan? In EVERYTHING, treat people the same way that you want them to treat you (Matthew 7:12). 

This week and for the rest of your life, think about being the one who reaches out a helping hand. Do not hesitate to seek out the less-fortunate. Maybe it is serving a meal to someone who can’t afford food, maybe it is a financial donation. Being a good Samaritan does not just come down to giving material things. Giving spiritual guidance, and helpful counsel can brighten a day just as much, if not more than food can do! 

The story of the Good Samaritan calls us to action. It challenges us to embody compassion and to show it in action, regardless of the differences between ourselves and the other party. By doing these things, we will fulfill the Lord’s expectation to love as He has loved us. By doing these things, we will grow in spirit and number in God’s loving family.

Written by: Mason MacDonald

Bibliography:

New American Standard Bible: 1995 Update (La Habra, CA: The Lockman Foundation, 1995)