All humans beings are God’s beloved creations, and all are invited to receive forgiveness at the cross. Because God has invited everybody into his family through Christ, every person we meet is a potential brother or sister. When we grasp this truth and begin to see people for what they mean to God, we begin to soften up and treat people tenderly.

Scripture says to treat people the way Jesus Christ treats you. When you pray, the Lord listens attentively to every word you say. Why not treat your spouse, your children, your friends and your coworkers the same way? When you make a mistake, Jesus lifts you up, forgives you, and continues to treat you with love and respect. Why not do the same for the people whom you live, work and worship? When you feel lonely and insecure, the Holy Spirit stays by your side, comforts you and assures you of God’s love. Why not give comfort and support to the people you love when they are going through difficult times?

• Think of a recent situation when you felt you needed compassion from someone. What would have ministered compassion to you?

• Why do you think some people equate compassion with weakness?

Study (Read Luke 10:25-37)

1. When the expert in the law challenged Jesus, he was not disagreeing with compassion. Instead, what was he fishing for (v.29)?
2. What limits did the law expert hope to place compassion?
3. The priest and Levite chose not to be compassionate. How might their "good reasons" compare with our "good reasons" for neglecting to help someone?
4. In helping the beaten man, how did the Samaritan disregard the inconvenience, danger and financial cost to himself?
5. The Samaritan "took pity" on the wounded man. Some equate pity with wishy-washy sentimentality. How do the Samaritan’s actions show strength rather than weakness?
6. When someone has been a "good Samaritan" to you, how were you affected?
7. Who in today’s society would you compare to a Samaritan?

• Is there someone about whom you are making the same excuses as the priest and Levite, for the same sort of "good reasons"? Why?