I was just listening to the story about the good Samaritan. You know, the person who took the time to help the one in need, as opposed to those who only looked on and walked by.

A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho. Robbers attacked him. They stripped off his clothes and beat him. Then they went away, leaving him almost dead. A priest happened to be going down that same road. When he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. A Levite also came by. When he saw the man, he passed by on the other side too. But a Samaritan came to the place where the man was. When he saw the man, he felt sorry for him.

Luke 10:30-33 NIRV

It’s interesting that all three men SAW the half-dead man on the road they traveled on. However, both the priest and the Levite were able to find an excuse for passing over on the other side. Here are two men we would think would be examples of charity, showing compassion on this man.  Instead, they chose to shut up their compassion.  They both moved away from really seeing. 

The Samaritan did not exhibit an idle compassion.  He didn’t pass by saying, “Lord bless him” as he continued on his way. 
Jesus said it is your neighbor that we are to have compassion on. Who is your neighbor?  ALL people.  Jesus was saying we are to love each other as we love ourselves!  How do you love yourself?  Are you looking out for your-self?  To love another as yourself is to do just what you want for yourself, to please yourself.  

Would you consider taking the love of self, and turning it for the love of your fellow man who needs a touch of love and compassion of Christ that you are able to give. 

We all have busy schedules, but will you choose to SEE the real needs of others you encounter along your path today?