The answer is: What shall I do to inherit eternal life?

Luke 10 v 25

The encounter between Jesus and the lawyer in Luke 10:25 is a powerful moment that unleashes profound insight about the essence of goodness and humanity. When the lawyer asks, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?”, he’s not merely inquiring about entering a heavenly kingdom. He’s also probing deeper into what it means to truly live a life filled with value and purpose here and now.

It's fascinating to note that the framework of this conversation relies heavily on the well-known Hebrew Scriptures. The lawyer is well aware of the Torah and has likely formulated judgments surrounding it. Jesus flips the script by engaging the lawyer, asking him what is written in the law, implying that understanding eternal life isn’t solely about rote religious acts—it requires a deeper spiritual engagement and understanding of love.

The story culminates in Jesus sharing the parable of the Good Samaritan. Though Samaritans and Jews held historical enmity towards each other, it's the Samaritan’s actions that highlight compassion, love, and noble character—concepts that transcend societal boundaries. This lesson echoes throughout time, urging individuals to relate with humanity, compassion, and mercy, regardless of our differences. It reminds us that discussions about eternal life should invite us to advocate for a living experience rooted in heartfelt kindness, not just fulfilling duties or doctrines.

Isn't it a compelling thought that the path to "inheriting eternal life" beckons us to do good where we see it, rather than get bogged down by complex theological inclinations?