WHO NEEDS MY COMPASSION?
Luke 10: 25-37
So which of these three do you think was neighbour to him who fell among the thieves? Luke 10:36
Our modern word neighbour derives from two Old English words for “near” and “inhabitant.” In modern terms, it describes a person living near or next door. But we tend to think in more limited terms: a person living near or next door that I know personally.
Jesus’ definition of neighbour was different. It arose out of a conversation with a lawyer who said that the law could be summarized as loving God and loving one’s neighbour (Luke 10:25-37). But the lawyer then asked Jesus what a modern person might ask: “Who exactly is my neighbour?” Jesus answered by telling the story of the Good Samaritan—a man who helped a Jewish stranger who had been beaten and robbed and left for dead by the roadside. Two Jewish religious leaders had passed by without offering help. But the Samaritan man stopped and helped the victim and took care of his needs. This was amazing because Jews and Samaritans were enemies in that day.
Jesus’ point was this: Your neighbour is anyone with a need that you are able to meet. Look for a neighbour whose need you might meet: a family member, church member, someone in your work place, someone in your neighbourhood, etc. You can excite in yourself a glow of compassion…by going and seeking an object that requires compassion.
ACTION: Show compassion to at least one person today
