The wounded man lay dying by the side of the road.  He had been brutally attacked and robbed by bandits.  Earlier, through the haze of pain and semi-consciousness, he had twice heard footsteps approaching, slowing, then continuing on their way.  Now, when hope of help was almost gone, he dimly heard hoof beats on the road.  Amazingly, they stopped beside him and he soon felt the gentle touch of someone raising his head to give him a cool drink of water.  As he revived somewhat, he was aware that his wounds were being carefully cleaned and dressed.  Then the kind stranger helped him up and lifted him onto the back of his donkey. 

As they continued on the road, the wounded man’s head was swimming with the heat and pain.  He wondered why a Samaritan, of all people, would help him – a Jew.  His amazement grew when this kind stranger took him to an inn, tended him through the night, and then paid for his continuing care.  What a selfless, generous act!

Jesus told us we must love our neighbor.  And this is the story he told to illustrate how we do that.  We show generosity to the one in need.  Mercy to the one who is neglected by others.  Kindness to the different and unlovely one.  They are our neighbors.                  

This is Luis Palau.