“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”
-Luke 10:36-37

The highest doctrine for our faith is compassion. This is why God sent Jesus into the world – to change our hearts, to love our enemies or outsiders, those who have never been invited into our circle. He invited us into his circle so we invite others into ours.

We must love the Samaritan. We may have never seen a man beaten, bloodied, and dying on the side of the road. But we see beaten down and bloodied people every day – at work, in traffic, at the grocery store. That woman just got a bad health report. That man is getting a divorce. Every day we interact with people that are beaten, bloodied, and dying. And we, in our desire to worship and be holy, walk around them.

Compassion is what honors God. Kindness is what honors God. You cannot be in a hurry and obey God at the same time. We must remember that God has called us, first and foremost, to love and be compassionate to those outside our inner circle.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to spot those who are beaten down in heart and spirit. Show me how to be a healing force in their lives through your love. Help me to be compassionate. Amen.

Reflection: How have you seen God’s healing love through your compassion transform and heal a person?