Friday 21 June 2024
But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?” (v. 29)
Background
The story of the Good Samaritan is one that is so familiar to many of us. But in rereading it I’m struck by the phrase ‘wanting to justify himself’ (v. 29).
Jesus was in a verbal joust with a lawyer who was perhaps trying to trick Jesus and catch him out, not a unique experience for Jesus (see Mark 12:13-34). And the lawyer couldn’t fault Jesus’ response but he perhaps recognised that the answer was a bit more challenging that he had anticipated.
Jesus’ story has the clear and obvious meaning that the neighbour was the one who actually did something. We don’t get to blame the victim here. It was a dangerous road. Meeting bandits there was a common occurrence and so the person who was attacked had really only themselves to blame as all this was well known. What did they expect? But that is irrelevant to Jesus. The victim is not to blame and not at fault. They have been attacked. The issue is need and the moment arrives to help another person. How or why the need has arisen isn’t part of the discussion, nor is any notion of whether this victim deserves our help. He’s in need, we are followers of Jesus, and we are told to live out our faith. There really is no wriggle room here. "Go and do likewise" (v. 37) is very clear.
To Ponder:
- 'Charity begins at home’ – how Christian is this statement?
- Who doesn’t deserve our support?
Prayer
Gracious God, we thank you for all who have helped us in small ways and in very large actions. We thank you for those who constantly love and support us. Help us to be this for others.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Stephen Skuce
Stephen is the Superintendent of the North Western District of The Methodist Church in Ireland.