This Sunday we look into the parable of the Good Samaritan. This is probably one of Jesus’ best known stories. the story is so famous that laws have been named after this story.  It is a story that comes on the heels of a test from a man who wants to justify himself before the Lord. Although he doesn’t realize it, his arrogance and self-justification is his albatross. It is the burden we all bear. 

This self-justification and individualistic concern about inheriting eternal life becomes the backdrop for the story of the Good Samaritan. 

The story is one of a violent commute that ends with the most culturally unacceptable person becoming the hero in dispensing mercy to the victim. Then the real sting, the law expert is told to follow this man’s example. What a slap in the face! 

This sermon’s focus is on our need for a Good Samaritan as we make a violent commute through this world. He is one who sees us bloody and wounded. He comes to us and takes pity on us. He binds up our wounds. And out of his own purse, pays for our convalescence in a safe place. Then we are commanded to, “Go and do likewise.” 

Who is this Samaritan? He is like Jesus who relieves us from the suffering inflicted upon us by the law during our commute from Jerusalem to Jericho. When the indifference of the law wouldn’t save us, the mixed blood Son of God does. In saving us he does it at the cost of his life. Through his sacrifice, we are empowered to go on the mission of mercy, doing for other travelers what was done for us. In order to have this merciful experience, we need to follow the direction of Hosea the prophet to return to the Lord. He has torn us, but he will heal us. He has injured us, but he will bind our wounds. He will restore us, that we may live in his presence. So come, let us press on to acknowledge the Lord.