1. What must I do? (25-29)

An expert of the law stood up to test Jesus, asking him "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" His question was rooted in self-righteousness. He truly believed that he had loved God with all his heart, soul, strength, and mind. He also believed that he had loved his neighbor as himself. But when Jesus responded, "Do this and you will live", the man was not satisfied. It turns out that his view of 'neighbor' was far narrower than the Lord's. It was evidence that his love for God was not what he thought it was. Who we accept as our neighbor and how we love them is directly related to our love for God and it is a sign of whether or not we have really inherited eternal life.

2. "Go and do likewise" (30-37)

In the Lord's parable, the priest and the Levite saw the wounded man and passed him by. They knew God's word, but did not share his heart. The Lord's compassion for those in need is captured by the Samaritan whose love knew no boundaries or limits. The Samaritan's love shattered the barriers of race as he surrendered his time, safety, and possessions to help the man. This is the heart of anyone who loves God with their entire being. The Lord commands us to be like the Samaritan. We are to demonstrate the tender love and mercy of the Lord by having compassion on whoever is in need.