Samaritans had no dealings with each other, their animosity was well
known; at this distance of time we can hardly realize how startling a
thing it was to take a Samaritan as an example of a good
neighbour. But it is right here that Jesus begins to show us the true
relation of man to man and that this relation is superior to race,
caste, language, social distinctions, customs and organizations.

My neighbour, then, is not only the man who lives next door, or is in
the same business, or belongs to the same church or labour
organization, or political party, but all men are my neighbours and I
am to seek to do them good (Luke 10:30-37). This definition of
neighbour does away with all clannishness and exclusiveness, and man
comes face to face with his fellow man as a man.

How Shall I Treat My Neighbour?--A number of answers may be given:

1. Investigate the claims of my neighbour when I see him in a sad
condition. The good Samaritan did this at considerable personal risk,
for he could be by no means sure that the robbers would not return and
rob him. Too many men, when they see their neighbours in want, pass by
on the other side, as the priest and Levite did. Adversity has been
described as "a deep pit, into which a man has fallen, which is
surrounded by his near-sighted friends."

2. Sympathize and succour my neighbour in trouble and do what is
needed to help him get upon his feet.

3. Interest myself in the well being of my neighbour after the
immediate and acute necessity for aid is past. There are many who are
willing to aid when a pressing call comes, but who are unwilling to