Something I have pondered with this story a few times is that the men that pass him by are within their legal rights to do so. The man was bleeding by the side of the road. If one under the law would touch him, then he would be unclean. Thus he would be unable to preform whatever tasks he had to that day. He would have to wait the prescribed period of time before reengaging his community. I think there is something in this story that Jesus wants us to also learn about strict obedience to rules and lacking compassion.
This parable has meant so much more to me after realizing that I'm not the good Samaritan! My takeaway has been that we have to be open to receive help from the people we always figured we were better than. That receiving help might lead us toward mutual work for liberation seems like exactly the place Jesus would want to lead us!
Oooof this hit like a bag of bricks! I will carry this reflection (and the comment about the men passing by simply following the law at the time) with me. Thank you, Kevin, for this evergreen piece.
Something I have pondered with this story a few times is that the men that pass him by are within their legal rights to do so. The man was bleeding by the side of the road. If one under the law would touch him, then he would be unclean. Thus he would be unable to preform whatever tasks he had to that day. He would have to wait the prescribed period of time before reengaging his community. I think there is something in this story that Jesus wants us to also learn about strict obedience to rules and lacking compassion.
Thank you for this rereading of the parable!
You in my inbox: You Aren't the Good Samaritan
Me: Rude
inbox: shhhh, let him cook
This parable has meant so much more to me after realizing that I'm not the good Samaritan! My takeaway has been that we have to be open to receive help from the people we always figured we were better than. That receiving help might lead us toward mutual work for liberation seems like exactly the place Jesus would want to lead us!
Accurate. Thank you!
Kevin, I've read that parable countless times. But I missed the important point you bring forth. Thank you! This really challenges me to better serve
Oooof this hit like a bag of bricks! I will carry this reflection (and the comment about the men passing by simply following the law at the time) with me. Thank you, Kevin, for this evergreen piece.