NEIGHBOUR
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus challenges our understanding of who our neighbor truly is through the powerful parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:29-37). This teaching expands the concept of “neighbor” far beyond the traditional boundaries of kinship, nationality, or religious affiliation.
In ancient Israelite society, the term “neighbor” typically referred to fellow Israelites living in close proximity. However, Jesus radically redefines this notion, presenting a universal vision of neighborliness that transcends all social, ethnic, and religious barriers.
The parable unfolds with a man who falls victim to robbers on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. Left beaten and half-dead, he is passed by both a priest and a Levite, respected figures in Jewish society. Surprisingly, it is a Samaritan – a member of a group despised by the Jews – who stops to help the injured man, showing true compassion and mercy.
Through this story, Jesus illustrates that being a neighbor is not about who lives next door or shares our beliefs, but about how we treat those in need, regardless of their background. The Samaritan’s actions exemplify the second great commandment: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mk 12:31).
The Catechism of the Catholic Church reinforces this teaching, stating that love for our neighbor is inseparable from love for God. It emphasizes that this love extends to all, without exception, even to those we might consider enemies.
REFLECTION
As Christians, we are called to emulate the Samaritan’s example of selfless love and compassion. This means actively seeking opportunities to serve those in need, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or nationality. It challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones and preconceptions, recognizing the inherent dignity of every person as a child of God.
In our modern world, fraught with division and conflict, Jesus’ message of universal neighborliness is more relevant than ever. It urges us to build bridges of understanding and compassion, to see Christ in the face of every person we encounter, and to respond with love and mercy to those in need.
Let us, as followers of Christ, strive to embody this expansive vision of neighborliness in our daily lives. May we open our hearts to all who cross our paths, recognizing that in serving our neighbors—whoever they may be—we are serving Christ himself. For as Jesus teaches us, “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40).