It
can be difficult to show compassion to someone you might despise. It
can also be difficult to receive help from such a person. That’s
because you would think of that person as an enemy. This parable is
about showing God’s love and compassion without strings attached,
even for an enemy.
The
question could be asked, “How could a holy God offer love to any of
us, who are basically his enemies because of all the sins we do
against him?” The answer is grace (unearned favor)! (See Romans
5:6-11.)
In
Jesus’ parable, a priest and a Levite pass by and notice the man
who has been robbed and beaten, but they keep going without offering
any help. Then along comes a Samaritan. (In those days the Jews and
Samaritans despised each other.) This man stops and takes action in
practical ways. He doesn’t just throw money at the problem; he also
gives his time and resources to see that the beaten man is restored
to health again.
Many
people tend to measure their love for God by their commitment to
church attendance, Bible study, giving money for ministry, or
volunteering at church. Yet loving our neighbor demands more. To love
God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength goes hand in hand
with loving our neighbor as ourselves. We are commanded to do
both—regardless of who they are, what they have done, or where they
come from.