Compassion

Monday January 10

Compassion  

But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. Luke 10:33

Everyone knows the story of the Good Samaritan. When we think of all that is happening in our world today, our hearts should respond with compassion for our neighbors. But who is your neighbor you might ask, Jesus told it in response to a question from a lawyer in Luke 10.

Jesus answered the question with a story: A Jew was set upon by robbers who stole his goods and left him for dead. Two Jewish religious leaders passed by and ignored the man’s plight. But when a cultural enemy of the man came by—a Samaritan—he stopped to help the injured man. The Samaritan “had compassion” on the man. He bound the man’s wounds, took him to an inn, and paid for his care. The Samaritan used what resources he had with him—oil, wine, money—to meet the injured stranger’s needs. Jesus’ point, your neighbor is anyone in need of help. Compassion is based not on wealth or party lines; it is based on a willingness to help with whatever resources we have.

Who is your neighbor? On whom can you have compassion today? If you resources match another’s needs do not pray about it, just do it. God has already blessed you to go into action, so do what you can.