“So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?” And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.” –Luke 10:36–37 

Who’s My Neighbor

One day, a lawyer came up to Jesus asking, “Who is my neighbor?” and Jesus responded with: “There once was a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho ….” Can you imagine the lawyer’s frustration? All he wanted was a simple answer, and Jesus started telling a story. But it was much more than just a story. There was purpose, depth, and detail in this story that Jesus specifically included to expose all the excuses we use to keep from loving and connecting with the people around us.

Everyone listening to Jesus that day knew the road from Jerusalem to Jericho wound 18 miles through the mountains and descended about 3,300 feet. And it definitely wasn’t a path you wanted to take after dark because it was a notoriously popular hideout for bandits.

Attacked by Bandits

Sure enough, the man was attacked by robbers, stripped naked, beaten unconscious, and thrown into a ditch to die. Eventually, a priest came riding by. When this priest saw the man covered in dust and blood lying by the side of the road, he moved to the other side of the road to avoid him and passed on by. The priest was followed by a Levite—another spiritual leader. Seeing that the man had been beaten up by bandits and fearing for his own life, he hurried by as quickly as possible.

Now, this is where Jesus did something gutsy: He introduced a Samaritan as the hero of the story. And here’s why it was so revolutionary: The Jews didn’t just dislike the Samaritans; they despised them. 

Jesus Talks About Compassion

Well aware of this, Jesus’ purpose behind making a Samaritan the hero of His story was both deliberate and significant. When the Samaritan came upon the wounded Jewish man, he was moved with compassion. He cleaned the man’s wounds and gave him first aid. Then, placing him on his own donkey, the Samaritan took the man into the next town (which was most likely a Jewish town), where he booked him a room at an inn and paid for it.

So, what’s the major difference between the priest, the Levite, and the Samaritan? It all comes down to one word: compassion. When he saw the wounded man, the Samaritan picked him up and brought him to a place of healing.

Who's My Neighbor?

Ask yourself today, “Who’s my neighbor?” It’s those who’ve been robbed by the thugs and bandits of the world—fear, despair, grief, pain, poverty, disease, hate, hopelessness, misery—then beaten up and left for dead. They’re around every corner we turn—from all walks of life. No one is exempt. No one is left untouched.

Do we keep our distance? Or will we allow our hearts to be moved with compassion? Will we stop what we’re doing—even if it’s something good or spiritual—and kneel beside those who are hurting? Will we help carry them to a place where they can find life, hope, and healing?

Ask God to soften your heart to those around you. Ask Him to stir up love and compassion for them and their needs. Ask Him to give you the courage and wisdom to walk with them and offer them hope and life.

What does this mean for me?

Supporting those who are hurting requires time, energy, and authenticity. But who better to bring hope and light into difficult situations than those who know Jesus? Is there someone in your life who is sick, struggling, or feeling hopeless? How can you offer them encouragement today? Maybe it’s providing a warm meal, sending a heartfelt card or text message, helping with household tasks, or offering transportation to an appointment. There are many ways to actively care for those in need, and along with our actions, we can also pray. Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to bring someone specific to mind. How can you show them the love of Jesus this week?

This article is part of the Let’s Go devotional, which is focused on fulfilling Jesus’ Great Commission. Follow along with the devotional here.