Courageous Compassion: The Good Samaritan’s Challenge

Dec 6

In Episode 8 of the Nerd of the Word podcast, we dig into the challenging topic of "Courageous Compassion" and its relevance to the parable of the Good Samaritan. Compassion is defined as "suffering together" and involves actively working to alleviate the suffering of others. Jesus tells a shocking story to illustrate what courageous compassion looks like.

The episode emphasizes that courageous compassion involves caring for and helping those who are not like us, even when it challenges the status quo or disrupts power dynamics.

Focus Passage:

Luke 10: 36-37

36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”

37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.”

Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

Main Takeaways:

Jesus points out that our neighbor includes all humanity and we are commissioned to show compassion to all
When we participate in courageous compassion, we stand to break down the cultural and social barriers
Courage starts with a willingness to serve those who don't look, talk, or act like us

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,

Help us be motivated to show compassion to those around us who are suffering. Let us see them with the eyes of faith and be courageous enough to serve, heal, and resource people who we don’t always see eye to eye with. May we be fearless in our compassion as you were fearless in placing value on the outcasts of your time. Help us to be more like you every day.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Show Notes:

Africa Bible Commentary

Compassion defined - ⁠https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/compassion/definition#:~:text=Compassion%20literally%20means%20%E2%80%9Cto%20suffer,though%20the%20concepts%20are%20related⁠

Luke as historian - Asbury Bible Commentary

Priests vs Levites

⁠https://ww.bibleodyssey.org › people › main-articles › pr…⁠

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