Gospel
Luke 10:25-37
There was a scholar of the law who stood up to test Jesus and said, “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What is written in the law? How do you read it?He said in reply, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. He replied to him, “You have answered correctly; do this and you will live.” But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor? Jesus replied, “A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn, and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, ‘Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.’ Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers’ victim?” He answered, “The one who treated him with mercy. Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
Sermon
My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's Gospel reading presents Jesus' response to a scholar's question about eternal life. Jesus shares the Parable of the Good Samaritan, teaching us about loving our neighbors.
The Great Commandment:
Jesus quotes the law:
- Love God with all your heart, being, strength, and mind (Deuteronomy 6:5)
- Love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18)
The Parable:
A man is robbed and left half-dead on the Jerusalem-Jericho road.
- A priest and Levite pass by
- A Samaritan shows compassion and care
The Question:
Who is my neighbor?
Jesus' Answer:
- The one who treats others with mercy
Implications for Us:
- Recognize our neighbors in need
- Show compassion and kindness
- Go beyond mere obligations
- Demonstrate love through actions
Conclusion:
May we follow Jesus' teachings, loving God and our neighbors.
Prayer
Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty, merciful, and loving God, help us love You with all our hearts, souls, strength, and minds. Grant us compassion and kindness toward our neighbors. May our actions reflect Your love and mercy.
Lord Jesus, help us love You with all our hearts. Grant us compassion and kindness toward our neighbors. May our actions reflect Your love.
We pray for:
- Hearts filled with love for You and others
- Eyes to recognize neighbors in need
- Courage to show compassion and kindness
- Opportunities to serve and demonstrate love
In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.
Prayer for Neighbors:
Lord, bless our neighbors with love, care, and compassion. May we be Your instruments of mercy. Amen.
Prayer for Service:
Heavenly Father, guide us in serving others. Grant us humility, kindness, and generosity. May our service reflect Your love. Amen.
Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ