Reflection for the Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Divine Dialogue of God with the Soul

When we think of the ‘Good Samaritan’ we recall that ‘good people,’ respected people, passed by the man who was in trouble. Then a Samaritan, from a group of believers who were looked down upon by the townsfolk where this incident happened, came to the rescue of the wounded man. When Jesus told this story, using these people as the main characters, I believe He wanted His listeners to understand that no one is outside the sphere of God’s Love.

But there’s more.

As we consider the story we can’t help being reminded of the times we have passed by someone in need. Think of the struggle we all feel within when we see a man with a sign ‘’My children are hungry’ or ‘Out of work. God bless you for your help.’  We are reluctant not because we aren’t generous (if we were selfish there would be no regret or struggle) but because it’s just so hard to know where to stop giving.

Jesus isn’t saying ‘Give till you’re broke,’ but give without seeking reward, when you can, as you can, to anyone you can because everyone is your neighbor. Choose wisely, without judgment, but do choose to give. Give, but give with love.

Don’t make yourself so poor that you become destitute.  Just open your heart in a generous way and God will see your gift as having been given to Him.

Then do it again when you can, and God will be pleased.

God bless you.