Who is My Neighbour?

Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

Luke 10:36

Yesterday, we began a conversation about the story of the good Samaritan. It’s a familiar story, but as the saying goes, familiarity can breed contempt. That’s why we are revisiting it. 

We established why Jesus told the story: as a response to a lawyer trying to justify himself. Let’s briefly revisit the story itself. A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest and a Levite both passed him and did nothing until a Samaritan came to the scene and took pity on him. He bandaged his wounds, poured oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. Jesus concluded the story by asking, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

For us today, the answer to Jesus’ question is simple: the one who helped is the true neighbour. However, for a Jewish person in Jesus’ time, it wasn’t so straightforward. Understanding the complex relationship between Jews and Samaritans is key. Originally brothers, some Jews intermarried with Gentiles, and the Samaritans were their descendants. This led to animosity, with Jews considering Samaritans as ‘unclean’ or ‘half-breeds.’ The Samaritans also posed challenges to the Jews rebuilding Jerusalem (see Ezra 4:10 and Nehemiah 4:2). Hating Samaritans was seen as a sign of religious purity, while loving or helping them was unthinkable. With that much hate towards Samaritans from the Jews, it’s impossible to get any love in return hence a wall of hostility that transcends generations. 

Despite this deep hatred, the parable shows a Samaritan overcoming cultural and social barriers. He embodies Jesus’ message of love without discrimination, even towards enemies.

As Christians, we are called to emulate the example set by the Samaritan and ultimately, Jesus Himself. Our love should be inclusive, breaking down societal barriers. The challenge is to love not only those who love us or deserve it, but also those who seem undeserving. Can you think of anyone like that in your life? Take the first step now and reach out to them in love. 

PRAYER