On Making Prejudgments

One of the major obstacles we have in our showing compassion to those in need, is making prejudgments about who we “think” is worthy of our compassion. Jesus addressed the problem in a parable that’s been labeled, “The Good Samaritan,” in order to answer the following question that a lawyer posed: “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:25,29).

Jesus told of a man who traveled on the notoriously dangerous road from Jerusalem to Jericho. As he traveled, he fell among thieves, and subsequently was robbed, beaten, and left for dead (Luke 10:30). Two so-called “religious” Jews (a priest and a Levite) passed him, but they walked by "on the other side" (Luke 10:31-32), possibly thinking that they would be religiously defiled if they stopped and rendered aid (John 18:28 – see commentary).

Soon, a Samaritan came along the road and demonstrated unconditional compassion on the wounded stranger by providing for his needs (Luke 10:33-35). The audience to whom Jesus was telling this story to, would have gasped when he said the word “Samaritan,” because Jews despised Samaritans (John 4:9; Acts 10:28). It’s interesting to note that the Samaritan could have limited or qualified his compassion, simply because the man was a Jew. But he did not limit his neighborly kindness to those he “thought” were worthy. Instead, he merely observed a human being in need and resolved to help him.

Are we limiting our compassion and kindness to only folks to whom we prejudge to be worthy? If we are, aren’t we being a respecter of persons? (James 2:1-9). Beloved, as disciples of Jesus, let us find ways to show neighborly kindness to all people, especially to those of the household of faith (Gal. 6:9-10).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets

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