As I prepared and preached yesterday's messages on compassion I thought of the "better" Samaritan. He actually was a Jew for he was the man who was laying along the road that was the one to whom compassion was given. The good Samaritan, as we call him. was such a good example of compassion, giving his time, touch, and treasure (money) to see that this stranger was back on his feet again.
So why do I call the guy the "better" one. I can only think that the act of compassion that saved his physical life also became a motivation to "go and do likewise". It seems to me that he would want to do the same for someone else.
I've never been a "huggy" person but after standing in line at Megan's funeral and receiving hug after hug, many with tears on faces, I have become a hugger. The love, care, and compassion given to me that night is something I want others to feel as well. It's just a simple act of compassion but to a hurting person it's enormous.
So the Lord taught me two lessons - 1. Never be so proud you can't receive compassion and 2. What you have received give to someone else. Be the "best" Samaritan!