The Good Samaritan parable, from Luke 10:25-37, is a story told by Jesus to highlight the importance of compassion. An expert in Jewish law questions Jesus about inheriting eternal life, and Jesus refers him to the commandments about loving God and one's neighbour.
To clarify "Who is my neighbour?" Jesus tells of a man attacked by robbers on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. Both a priest and a Levite neglect to help him, but a Samaritan, despite cultural hostilities, shows compassion. He tends to the man's wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays for his care.
Jesus concludes that the true neighbour is the one who shows mercy, urging others to do the same, challenging societal and religious prejudices by promoting kindness and compassion.
We are left to wonder about the innkeeper's thoughts, actions, and, ultimately, faith in handling this unexpected task. What can we learn?
Today, we are called to be innkeepers, recognising that everyone encounters hardship. We must approach with courage and compassion, opening our hearts to those in need. Are you the innkeeper? Are you willing to trust God’s promises and care for those He sends your way?
My prayer is that our gracious Lord to grant us the heart of the innkeeper. May we serve others with trust, compassion, and faithfulness, knowing that our service is an expression of His love. May He help us to trust in His promises and use our resources wisely to care for those in need. In our moments of uncertainty, may He remind us that He holds all things in His hands. Amen.
To clarify "Who is my neighbour?" Jesus tells of a man attacked by robbers on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. Both a priest and a Levite neglect to help him, but a Samaritan, despite cultural hostilities, shows compassion. He tends to the man's wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays for his care.
Jesus concludes that the true neighbour is the one who shows mercy, urging others to do the same, challenging societal and religious prejudices by promoting kindness and compassion.
Lessons from the Innkeeper
In Luke 10:35, the narrative shifts focus from the Samaritan’s compassionate rescue to an important yet often unnoticed figure: the innkeeper. "He took out two pence, and gave them to the host [innkeeper], and said unto him, 'Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.'” This scenario teaches lessons in trust, faithfulness, and service. Picture yourself as the innkeeper. A stranger entrusts you with caring for an unknown person, with a promise of future repayment. There’s uncertainty, but also a chance to show compassion.We are left to wonder about the innkeeper's thoughts, actions, and, ultimately, faith in handling this unexpected task. What can we learn?
1. Trust in Uncertainty
Imagine being the innkeeper. You're handed a significant responsibility—a stranger in dire need—and a simple assurance of repayment in the future. In this situation, the innkeeper might have wrestled with doubt:
- What if the Samaritan didn’t return?
- What if the costs exceeded the initial payment?
- What if the man didn’t recover?
Despite such uncertainties, the innkeeper chose to trust the Samaritan’s word. This teaches us the importance of trusting in God's provisions, even when outcomes are uncertain. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding."
2. Compassionate Service
Without knowing the wounded man's background or story, the innkeeper accepts the responsibility of care. His actions underscore the crucial role of extending hospitality and care to those in need, mirroring the church's mission.
Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." The innkeeper’s readiness to serve, irrespective of recognition or the promise of repayment, emphasizes compassionate service as an essential Christian duty.
3. Faithful Stewardship
The innkeeper likely used his own resources and skills to tend to the traveler, exemplifying faithful stewardship. God calls us to use what we have—our time, talents, and treasures—to serve others.
Luke 16:10 states, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much." The innkeeper’s willingness to invest his resources in the care of a stranger reflects a commitment to stewardship that serves as an inspiration for us.
4. Bearing Burdens
The innkeeper faced the risk of the man’s possible decline or even death under his care. Yet, he chose to shoulder this burden, aligning with Galatians 6:2: "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Through his act, we see the embodiment of bearing one another's burdens, a call for Christians to support those experiencing life’s trials, whether emotional, physical, or spiritual.
Exemplifying the Innkeeper in Our Daily Living:
Many people around us resemble the wounded traveller, seeking comfort and healing. They might briefly enter our churches and communities, burdened and in need of care. The church mirrors the innkeeper’s role, offering grace and hospitality, while pointing to Christ, who was crucified and risen. It welcomes all, regardless of their past or present. Being an innkeeper means caring for the vulnerable, acting with faith, and trusting in promises, much like the innkeeper trusted the Samaritan. It involves using our resources to support others based on trust. Just as the Samaritan promised to return, we are reassured of Christ’s return and His commendation of our faithful service.Today, we are called to be innkeepers, recognising that everyone encounters hardship. We must approach with courage and compassion, opening our hearts to those in need. Are you the innkeeper? Are you willing to trust God’s promises and care for those He sends your way?
My prayer is that our gracious Lord to grant us the heart of the innkeeper. May we serve others with trust, compassion, and faithfulness, knowing that our service is an expression of His love. May He help us to trust in His promises and use our resources wisely to care for those in need. In our moments of uncertainty, may He remind us that He holds all things in His hands. Amen.