As the daughter of an inner-city pastor in Chicago, I accompanied my dad on holiday deliveries. When we carried a turkey into the kitchen of a member-in-need, the woman said, “Just, a turkey? I wanted a ham. Set it there …” Our gifts barely fit on the counter overflowing with hams, turkeys, and all the trimmings. The image is seared into my brain.

Perhaps that experience triggers the recurring question, “How did the Good Samaritan do it?” (Luke 10:30-37). The despised foreigner didn’t hesitate; he reached across cultural boundaries to a person in need. You and I have accumulated numerous experiences with giving and receiving. Most bring happy memories. This year, I hope my response to non-profit campaigns is not driven by the need to clean out a closet or the end-of-year calendar. I pray to move past personal history to be an honest Good Samaritan.