Galatians – Chapter Five XX

by Ed Urzi

“For the whole law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” (Galatians 5:14 ASV).

Jesus’ parable of The Good Samaritan helps us understand what it means to “love thy neighbor as thyself.” Within that parable, a man from the region of Samaria had compassion upon an injured traveler even though their respective people groups did not get along. The Samaritan didn’t stop to consider the wounded man’s race or nationality- he simply saw the need and addressed it with his own time and resources.

He began by offering first-aid in the form of oil and wine (Luke 10:34). The alcohol content of the wine served as a primitive antiseptic while the oil would act to soothe the man’s wounds. Next, the Samaritan bandaged the man’s injuries and placed the wounded traveler on his own animal. This meant that the Good Samaritan had to walk the rest of the way. He then took the man to an inn, paid his expenses, and left with a promise to make good on any additional charges that might be necessary.

So unlike the others who encountered this beaten and bloodied traveler, the Good Samaritan saw the problem and did something about it. He acted in a spirit of great generosity towards another human being in need- and that led to Jesus’ conclusion…

“(Jesus said) ‘So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?’ And he said, ‘He who showed mercy on him.’ Then Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise'” (Luke 10:36-37).

So who might fit the definition of a neighbor according to this parable? Well, a “neighbor” might include someone in need of help, someone who might have been seen as an enemy, or someone who cannot provide for him or herself. Thus, Jesus expanded the definition of a neighbor beyond those who simply live in close proximity to us.

This parable provides us with an example to follow in considering how we might love our neighbors as ourselves. The Good Samaritan acted in compassion and concern for the need he encountered and addressed it in a manner that preserved the dignity of the injured man and drew no attention to his act of kindness. Since love always seeks another person’s highest good, our love for God should work to produce a similar sense of love and compassion for those whose paths cross our own, just like the Samaritan and the traveler in Jesus’ parable.