With which parable did Jesus respond when asked by the lawyer "who is my neighbour"?

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, we find a powerful storyline interwoven with social commentary that flips the script on religious and ethnic norms of Jesus’ time. The lawyer, perhaps looking for a neat definition of "neighbor," gets drawn into a profound lesson that challenges the deeply held divisive beliefs of various groups.

Picture this: a daring Samaritan, who would traditionally be viewed with suspicion by his Jewish neighbors, intervenes to help someone whom many would rationalize as unworthy or undesirable. The twist? The lawful religious leaders – the esteemed priest and the Levite – pass by on the other side, busy or perhaps fearful of ritual impurity by engaging with someone labeled as an outcast.

This parable doesn’t just teach about charity. It puts a spotlight on compassion that knows no borders. Samaritans were actually seen as outsiders, making it even more poignant that they represented true neighborly love in contrast to the expected characters. The “Good” Samaritan is a bit of a hero in a society that thrived on exclusivity!

Interestingly, this tale also echoes the themes upheld by societies and cultures through time, emphasizing the virtue of empathy beyond one's immediate community. It echoes in discussions even in the realms of ethics today. Truly, in Jesus’ neighborhood, “neighbor” is any person in need, a sentiment that encourages openness, love, and grace for all. Isn’t it inspiring how a simple story can elevate the profound importance of brotherhood across humanity?