Contagious Characteristics: CompassionSample

Along with the 5 major characters in the story of 'The Good Samaritan,' there are also three characteristics that we see within these characters: envy, selfishness, and compassion.

Envy is a feeling of discontent that is aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or luck. It states, "what's yours is mine, and I'm going to take it!"

Selfishness is a lack of consideration for others; concerned with one's profit or pleasure. It states, "what's mine is mine, and I'm going to keep it!"

Compassion is a feeling of pity and concern for the sufferings and misfortunes of others. It states, "what's mine is yours, and I'm going to share it!"

The robbers possessed the character of envy, which led them to attack the Jewish man. They believed that because they were lacking in an area it was ok to take someone else's belongings. Along with the robbers, the priest and Levite also possessed a character that was unlike God's, they were selfish. Without taking into consideration the pain of someone else, they wanted to protect their own needs even at the expense of ignoring someone else's. In James 3:14-18, we learn that selfishness and bitterness, and jealousy is a character trait that does not come from God but the devil. As children of God, we are called to lead a life that reflects the heart of God, just as the good Samaritan did. When he saw the poor, injured Jewish man instead of showing envy or selfishness, he was moved by compassion. 

Compassion is characterized by three elements:

"I see the need."

"I am moved by the need."

"I move to the need."

Throughout life, we will meet many types of people similar to the Jewish man - homeless, a student who is getting bullied at school, or even people who recently lost a friend or loved one. In scripture, we learn that we are God's children not by what we say, but by how we love the one who's in need (1 John 3:17).

Let's pray. "Lord, forgive me for being envious and selfish. Help me to see the needs of those around me and to meet them just as You have met mine. In Jesus' name, amen."

Reflection Questions:

1. What would happen if we ignore those who are in need? (Proverbs 21:13). 

2. How can we express more compassion and care for one another?