The story of the Good Samaritan is one of the most widely recognized and beloved parables of Christ and has entered our modern lexicon as being synonymous with anyone showing mercy, kindness, and compassion towards others. Clergy have preached upon this story from every conceivable perspective and angle, but one theme often overlooked is “stewardship.”
Unlike the Priest and Levite, the Samaritan did the right thing by stopping to help this poor victim. Yet, he also showed an amazing grasp of being a good steward by employing his resources wisely. The Samaritan had with him oil and wine, and he used them to wash, sanitize, and bandage the wounded man.
He had a donkey, which he used to transport this poor fellow to an inn, himself walking instead of riding. He used his money to pay for room and board while he ministered to the beaten man, and when the Samaritan finally had to return to his journey, he gave the innkeeper money to continue to house and care for the man; even promising to repay the innkeeper upon his return if the beaten man should require a longer stay. This, itself, shows faith, trust, and good stewardship.
Do you love God enough to give freely as did the Samaritan, or do you think, “what percentage can I spare?” Do you love the person in front of you at the cost to yourself if they are in need? Do you view your resources selfishly or selflessly? And do you freely give as God has given you?
Everything belongs to God, yet is also a gift from God, but He entrusts us to use these gifts and blessings wisely to extend His Kingdom and magnify Jesus Christ.
