Read:  Luke 10:25-37

Reflect: In the Parable of the Good Samaritan Jesus invites us to consider how we might answer the question, “Who is my neighbor?”  Better still, we might ask ourselves “Am I a good neighbor, and to whom?”   The scandal and surprise of the parable is that it’s the so-called “enemy” of the injured person who turns out to be the one most obedient to God’s command to show compassion and mercy;  to “love one’s neighbor as one’s self.”

Prayer:  Mighty and merciful God, lover of justice and equity, you call us to support the weak, to help those who suffer, and to honor all people.  By the power of your Holy Spirit, make us advocates for your justice and instruments of your peace, so that all may be reconciled in your beloved community; through Jesus Christ our Savior.  Amen.  (from All Creation Sings, p. 47.  ©2020 Augsburg Fortress, used by permission.)