Luke 10:27 – So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’”
The word “neighbor” in general refers to a group of people coming from the same social class and community who enjoys the same benefits. This word appears in Luke 10:27 and has been recited among the Israelites for generations.
When a Scribe asked Jesus who his neighbor was, Jesus did not respond in the context of nationality, gender, social status, or religion. Jesus instead gave him a parable of the good Samaritan. When there was a man who fell among thieves, stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead, who helped him in the end?
A priest and a Levite who were known for their religious reputations passed by that road but ignored the man. They did not have any compassion toward him. Lastly, a Samaritan, who also happened to go through that same road, helped the man out until his wound was completely healed, although he himself did not come from the same community as the wounded man. Instead of enjoying the benefit of helping out the wounded man, he had to sacrifice his time, energy, and money. That was actually what Jesus referred to as “loving your neighbor” in response to the Scribe’s question. We have to show compassion to those who are in need, to have the same heart as Jesus – who loves everyone without regards.
How about us? Have we loved our neighbors like Jesus has? We must learn from the Samaritan who had a compassionate heart like Jesus. We must be willing to help and serve others without expecting something in return. The help we offer must be sincere; we should not expect praises or other things.
The definition of “neighbor” according to the Kingdom of God is not limited by anything because every individual deserves to be truly helped and served in times of need. The Lord also does not differentiate who must do what to help others. No matter how powerful or great a person is, he or she still has to help out others as well.
Do what God said in Matthew 20:28, “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Let us do good to our neighbors, whoever they may be. God bless you.
Source:hs/Publishing Team, IBC Church