Day Five: The Even Better Samaritan

Yesterday, we considered the possibility that the Good Samaritan may not have been able to help the injured traveller on his own. There are many Good Samaritans in our world, but sadly many of them are struggling too.

In Van Gogh's painting, the Good Samaritan looks like he needs help lifting the injured man onto his horse. Perhaps he could have called out to the priest or Levite to ask for their assistance. Doing this would have enabled them to participate in God's plans to aid the injured traveller. Lifting the traveller is a five-minute job and wouldn't inconvenience either of the men too much if they turned around and came to help. It might be something they'd consider doing, as there would be no long-term commitment and no cost.

There are other needs, too; maybe someone ought to chase down the bandits and recover the stolen goods from them. That would be a far larger task with considerable risk. Still, perhaps the priest or Levite would consider organizing a group to do this if asked. It might prevent other travellers from being robbed if the bandits could be apprehended.

You may find yourself in a similar situation to the Good Samaritan; exhausted and unsure whether you are strong enough to do any good. Have you considered asking others for help? Even those who have 'walked on' and don't appear interested? You may be surprised by their positive responses.

So many of us feel overwhelmed by the world's troubles and fear doing the wrong things to help. We need other people to invite us to work with them, and set good examples so we know where to begin.

If you are a struggling Good Samaritan, don't feel you need to do it alone. Ask for help. You can ask other people, and when you do so, be specific. You don't want to add to their feeling of despondency, but rather let them know there is hope if you act together. It's easier to say yes to a particular request. Above all, ask God to send others to help. He loves to see His church work together, and He will respond.

Reflect: In what areas are you struggling to help others? Who could you ask for help? What exactly do you need them to do?

Prayer: Lord God, You know everything. You know all the needs and troubles of the world, and You also know who and what will help. Unite us, Lord, in serving and assisting others. May Your church body work as one. We look forward to participating in miraculous stories of assistance and provision, and may all the glory go to You. Amen.

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