Go and Do Likewise

Luke 10:25–37

In Luke 10:25–37, Jesus tells one of His most famous parables — the Good Samaritan. It begins with a question from a lawyer: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answers with another question, pointing to the law: “Love the Lord your God… and love your neighbor as yourself.” The lawyer, wanting to justify himself, presses further: “And who is my neighbor?”

Jesus responds with a story: A man is beaten, robbed, and left half-dead on the road. A priest and a Levite — religious leaders — walk by, avoiding him entirely. But a Samaritan, a person considered an outsider, stops. He not only shows compassion but goes above and beyond — bandaging wounds, placing the man on his own donkey, paying for his care.

Then Jesus asks, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man…?”

The answer is clear: “The one who had mercy on him.”

And Jesus replies, “Go and do likewise.”

So what does this mean for us?

In a world that often moves fast and keeps people at a distance — divided by politics, culture, and personal comfort — Jesus reminds us that being a neighbor is not about proximity, but mercy. Not about agreement, but action. Not about who deserves help, but about who needs it.

At Good Shepherd, we are called to be neighbors in our city — in La Crosse and beyond. Being a Good Samaritan doesn’t always look dramatic; sometimes it’s checking in on someone who’s lonely, supporting a family in need, or simply not walking by. Our neighbors are in our pews, our workplaces, and even on the margins of society. And Jesus calls us to see them — and act with compassion.

Let us pray for eyes to see the hurting, hearts open to interruption, and hands ready to serve.

Prayer

Gracious God,

You are the ultimate Good Shepherd, always near to the broken and the weary. Open our eyes to the needs around us and soften our hearts to respond with compassion. Forgive us when we pass by out of fear, distraction, or convenience. Give us the courage to step into discomfort, to love our neighbor not just in word but in action. May your Spirit guide us to be Good Samaritans in our homes, our church, and our city.

In the name of Jesus, who showed us the way of mercy,

Amen.