But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. (Luke 10:33,34)
Jesus told this story in answer to a question: “Who is my neighbor.” The man asking the question was trying to make himself look good. His strategy failed. Jesus exposed the man’s heart. Jesus’ point in telling the parable was to highlight this truth: When it comes to caring for others, actions count. Not good intentions. Not words. And certainly not excuses.
Caring for others can be costly, risky, and messy — sometimes all three. All too often the nightly news will report a situation where a person is injured or mugged in a crowded area, but no one helps the victim. Why? Too costly, too risky, too messy. True — we can’t help every one. But as we accept this truth, the Lord will guide us to those fellow human beings whom we are supposed to help.
It’s the right thing to do.
