Elevate: Raising the Bar for Conversations About Political TensionsSample

In one of his parables, Jesus introduces a Jewish man who’s been beaten and left for dead on the road. A priest and a religious leader see the man but walk right past him. Then comes a Samaritan—or rather, a despised Samaritan—who went against everything he believed to help the Jewish man. Jews viewed Samaritans as far inferior to them in society. There was generational hatred between the two groups. That’s what makes the fact that Jesus chooses to highlight a Samaritan as the example people are to follow in this passage so interesting. To Jesus, your nationality, heritage, zip code, wealth, or race do not disqualify you from serving others. They’re actually opportunities to serve others.

There may be someone on the outside of your circle who may need your help today. So, look for someone who may need a kind word, a helping hand, or just a friend, and show them mercy as the Samaritan did.