The teacher of the Law was on the right track when he quoted Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18 as being the two foundational commandments. However, as Luke 10:29 tells us, he wanted to “justify himself” when it came to his relationships with others.

In the parable, one would expect a merciful response from the priest and the Levite (Temple assistant) to the man in need, but they just avoid him. Jews, like the man asking Jesus these questions, hated Samaritans so they would not expect one of these despised people to be the ‘hero’ of the story.

To act like a neighbor means showing kindness and mercy to anyone in need.

So, do you know someone in need to whom you can be a real ‘neighbor’?