Today a scholar of the law decides to test Jesus.  The scholar asked Jesus: “Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”  As a scholar the man was well versed in the law.  Was he simply curious to how Jesus might respond to his question?  Or was the scholar testing Jesus?

 Jesus immediately replied to his question.  He names the first two commandments given to us by God: “Love God with your heart, your strength and your mind.  And love your neighbour as yourself.”  Although the scholar told Jesus: “You have answered correctly,” the scholar was not satisfied with Jesus’ answer. He then asks Jesus another question: “Who is my neighbour?”   This time Jesus did not directly answer the scholar’s question.  Rather He  told him a parable: one that we know well:  that of  the Good Samaritan

Today let us ask ourselves : What am I doing to ensure that I will inherit eternal life?  Am I reaching out to the others  in my life?  Do I consciously attend to them?  Or do I simply take them for granted?  

 At times in our lives, we will be “the man (or woman) who was stripped and beaten.”  We may experience family difficulties, financial problems, depression or anxiety.   At these times, what a blessing it is when a friend, family member, neighbour or co-worker reaches out to us.  Their care and attentiveness to us truly may be “balm for our souls.”   And today, if we  notice someone who seems to be struggling, reach out to them. 

We may be the very gift they need at that point.  And hopefully a friend, family member or even a stranger will reach out to us when we are struggling.  Jesus works through us and in us!  Today may we act and react to others as Jesus did!