The answer is: Who is my neighbour?

Luke 10 v 29

In Luke 10:29, when the lawyer asked Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?", it paved the way for one of the most beloved parables—the story of the Good Samaritan. This simple yet profound question reveals much about human nature and the boundaries we put around love and compassion. Often, we define “neighbor” too narrowly, sticking within the confines of familiarity, shared beliefs, or similar cultures.

Before diving into the parable, consider the cultural context. Samaritans and Jews had a long-standing feud, reciprocally viewed with disdain and prejudice. By choosing a Samaritan as the heroine of the tale, Jesus flipped societal expectations upside down. Not only did this teaching humanize a despised figure, it highlighted a universal moral truth: kindness transcends ethnic and cultural divides.

Trivia nuggets—Did you know that the term "Good Samaritan" has made its way into our modern lexicon? It's often used to describe someone who helps others willingly and selflessly. The impact of this parable is so profound that many hospitals and charities also adopt the name, exemplifying the lesson in action.

In essence, the parable invites you to redefine “neighbor”—not confined to who is close or like-minded, but rather anyone who is in need. Be it a stranger or an enemy, the call for compassion asks us to recognize the humanity in every person. What a challenge! It’s a reminder that we should extend our care and kindness universally, highlighting the interconnectedness of all people.