The parables of Jesus frequently contrast people and things. In this parable, Jesus is contrasting the difference between religious titles and benevolent compassion. The expert in the law could identify with the priest and the Levite because he came out of the same religious system. His people held the Samaritans in contempt. I have had many groups of people I formerly disregarded for various reasons but now respect their humanity because we are all created in God’s image.
As a person who was delivered from addiction to alcohol through my faith in Jesus Christ, for many years I had very little regard for Alcoholics Anonymous. Then, approximately thirty years after my deliverance from alcohol, I attended my first AA meeting in Telluride, Colorado. To my surprise, it was a delightful and rewarding experience. I was so blessed that when I returned home, I regularly attended the AA meetings in my area for two years. To this day, I recognize the tremendous value they bring to any community in which they serve.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan is a continual reminder that I must continually be aware of my ego’s desire to look condescendingly on groups of people with whom I may disagree. Jesus has commissioned me to be His ambassador, so it is my responsibility to love and regard everyone the way He does. Mercy always triumphs over judgment.