In the Gospel, we read the parable of the Good Samaritan, that speaks
of a man assaulted and left half dead at the side of the road. People
pass by him and look at him. But they do not stop, they just continue on
their journey, indifferent to him: it is none of their business! How
often do we say: it’s not my problem! How often do we turn the other way
and pretend not to see! Only a Samaritan, a stranger, sees him, stops,
lifts him up, takes him by the hand, and cares for him (cf. Lk
10:29-35). Dear friends, I believe that here, in this hospital, the
parable of the Good Samaritan is made tangible. Here there is no
indifference, but concern. There is not apathy, but love.” (Pope
Francis, Address at St. Francis of Assisi of the Providence of God
Hospital, 7/24/13)
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Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt desperate or alone? Where did help come from? When were you blessed by a stranger?
Who are today’s neighbors in need? How might God be calling you to respond?