Caring people set aside prejudices, notice pain, and provide where needed. I am so thankful we have so many caring people in our own congregation.

#4 Caring people passionately PARTICIPATE

The Samaritan “went to him.” He didn’t pass by. He chose to involve himself. He “bandaged his wounds by pouring on oil and wine.” “Oil” probably olive oil, was widely used by people of this period as a medicine to soothe the pain of open wounds. “Wine” was used as an antiseptic to keep wounds clean and prevent infection.

Next, the Samaritan “set him on his own animal.” We assume he traveled with a donkey. Instead of riding, he allowed this Jew, his racial enemy, to ride while he walked.

The Samaritan “brought him to an inn and took care of him.” There were no hospitals, no emergency rooms, no ambulances, and no 911 as we know today. There was no place to drop this victim off. So, the Samaritan rented a room in an “inn” and cared for the man as best as he could.

In our culture, it is so easy to be isolated. It’s easy to look the other way when we see a homeless person with a sign. It’s easy to refer a person in need to a relief organization. It’s easy to forget to pray for or call or visit a fellow church member going through a difficult time. Let’s participate… get involved in the details!