Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Deuteronomy 30:10-14; Colossians 1:15-20; Luke 10: 25-37
“Go and do the same”
We have seen so many catastrophic incidents, from 9-11 to Super Storm Sandy. We have at the same time seen how helpful and merciful people have been to each other. In today’s Gospel, Jesus relates the parable of the Good Samaritan. This person is a model of what love, compassion and mercy should look like in our every day lives.
The question we need to ask ourselves is:
Are we growing daily in the love of God and neighbor?
Our response requires a constant and ongoing process of conversion. We are called to grow more deeply in our relationship with God, our neighbor and ourselves. We cannot be like the priest and Levite in the parable and make excuses/pass by God.
Can we not be prejudicial and racist at times?
Do we allow our religious practices to become a smoke screen?
The Samaritan shows an appreciation and respect for humanity. He is not hindered by religious beliefs and/or nationality.
Jesus’ tale of the one who showed mercy tells us that our actions are more important than the definition of “neighbor.” We are challenged by this Gospel reading to be more merciful to those in need. We are to be the “Good Samaritan” and good neighbor to those we encounter each day, especially to those who need our help. Let us not wait for another catastrophe to happen in order to act. Jesus tells us, “GO AND DO THE SAME.” And imagine what could happen if we all did “Go and do the same.”
Sister Barbara Werner, OP