Jonah 1:1-2:1,11
Jonah 2:3-5,8
Luke 10:25-37
In today’s Gospel story, we encounter a man deeply battered and left abandoned on a dangerous road from Jerusalem to Jericho — a place symbolizing despair and hopelessness. Imagine him: bleeding, half-conscious, helpless, stranded all alone in a pit of suffering. The question echoes loudly: Will he survive? Where is God in this chaos? Why does evil seem to prevail?
Then, two religious figures — a priest and a Levite — who were trusted to be close to God, pass by without helping. But the story takes an astonishing turn! Out of nowhere, an outcast — a Samaritan shunned and segregated — sees the suffering man and stops in compassion, defying all expectations. He binds wounds, cares deeply, and shows true kindness.
God doesn’t always rescue us with miracles from the sky. Sometimes, God’s power moves through unexpected people who answer the call to love and serve. Today, our world is aching — bleeding, vulnerable, nearing destruction. It’s easy to feel powerless, but the real news is this: you and I have the power to make a difference.
Like Jonah crying out from the depths, we ask, “God, will you rescue us from this pit?” But here’s the exciting part: the answer isn’t far away. It’s right in front of us. Look around! Who do you see? Who needs your help? Who can you reach out to today — a stranger, a neighbor, someone in your community, or your street?
By opening our eyes and hearts, we discover that God is present in acts of love, in courage, in mercy. When we support others, stand against injustice, protect our planet, or forgive those who have wronged us, we become the hands and feet of God. We can turn despair into hope.
So, go out and be the Good Samaritan. Be bold. Make a difference. Live with love and compassion. Because in doing so, we find God’s healing power alive and active in our world.
Fr Joseph Osho