Stranger & Neighbor
In a world of increasing polarization, the parable of the Good Samaritan provides timeless wisdom about the true meaning of neighborly love.
 
Jesus shifts the focus from theoretical debates about who qualifies as a neighbor to the practical demonstration of mercy and compassion. By making a despised Samaritan the hero of the story, Jesus challenges his audience to reconsider their preconceptions and biases.

 

The stories we consume and share significantly influence our perception of others, especially those different from us. Personal encounters and relationships have the power to challenge and transform these preconceptions. While we cannot effectively love everyone in abstract terms, we can show practical kindness to specific individuals, even across political or social divides. The emphasis lies not in having perfect theological understanding but in demonstrating genuine mercy to those in need.