Pew bulletin
Fr Vijay’s sermon
The Good Samaritan: Go and Do Likewise (Luke 10:25–37)
Dear friends in Christ, one of the most beautiful questions in the Gospel is this: “Who is my neighbour?” A teacher of the Law asked Jesus this question, hoping perhaps to limit his responsibility. But Jesus answered with the story of the Good Samaritan a story that still challenges, comforts, and inspires us today.
A man was travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho when robbers attacked him. They took his clothes, beat him, and left him half dead. A priest saw him and crossed to the other side of the road. A Levite also saw him and passed by. But a Samaritan a person the injured man may not have expected to help him saw him, was moved with compassion, and stopped.
He bandaged his wounds, placed him on his own animal, took him to an inn, cared for him, and paid for his continued recovery. Jesus then asked, “Which of these three was a neighbour?” The answer was clear: “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said, “Go and do likewise.”
From this powerful parable, I want to share three simple points to take home.
1. See the Need Around You
The priest and the Levite both saw the wounded man, but seeing was not enough. They walked past him. Perhaps they were busy, afraid, or too concerned with their religious duties. Whatever their reasons, they allowed a person in need to remain alone.
Sometimes we do the same. We see someone hurting, lonely, sick, struggling financially, or carrying a heavy burden, but we say, “Someone else will help,” or “I am too busy today.” Yet compassion begins with open eyes. The Good Samaritan did not simply glance at the man; he truly saw him.
Let us ask God to give us caring eyes. When we notice a neighbour in need, may we not look away. A phone call, a visit, a meal, a word of encouragement, or a prayer can become the hand of God in someone’s life.
2. Let Compassion Move You to Action
The Samaritan “took pity” on the wounded man. His compassion was not merely a feeling; it became action. He went to him, treated his wounds, carried him, and made sure he was safe.
Christian love is practical. It does not only say, “I will pray for you,” though prayer is powerful. It also asks, “What can I do today?” Compassion crosses barriers of culture, background, and convenience. The Samaritan did not ask whether the injured man deserved help. He simply responded to human need.
Perhaps someone near you needs forgiveness, patience, encouragement, or practical support. Do not wait for the perfect moment. Small acts of kindness, done with a sincere heart, can restore hope and heal wounds.
3. Be a Neighbour Through Mercy
Jesus did not ask, “Who deserved to be helped?” He asked, “Who was a neighbour?” The answer was the one who showed mercy.
Being a neighbour is not about living close to someone; it is about loving someone. It means treating every person with dignity, especially those who are vulnerable, forgotten, or different from us. The Good Samaritan reminds us that mercy has no boundaries.
When we show mercy, we reflect the heart of Christ. Jesus came close to us when we were wounded by sin, fear, and suffering. He did not pass us by. He lifted us, healed us, and gave us hope. Therefore, as people who have received God’s mercy, we are called to share that mercy with others.
Encouragement for Today
Dear friends in Christ, you may feel that your help is small, but never underestimate what God can do through a willing heart. You may not be able to solve every problem, but you can stop for one person. You may not have much to give, but you can give time, kindness, prayer, and love.
The road from Jerusalem to Jericho was dangerous, but the greatest danger was not the robbers it was indifference. Let us not allow busyness, fear, or prejudice to make us pass by those who need us.
Today, Jesus speaks the same words to each of us: “Go and do likewise.” Go and see the need. Go and act with compassion. Go and be a neighbour through mercy.
May God give us generous hearts, courageous hands, and loving eyes, so that through us many people may experience the kindness of Christ.
May our Good Lord Bless us all. Amen.