Good morning to you and to 2019!

In previous years, I’ve asked you to consider the words Lovingkindness, Understanding, Architect and Build.

This year, I’ll ask you to consider the word that Jesus elaborates about in the remainder of the passage above, which is “Neighbor.” Here’s the remaining passage of scripture that contains his response (Luke 10:25-37).

By definition, the word Neighbor (Plesion) describes how I’m to treat the person who is in closest proximity to me, regardless if they’re a blood relative or if they’re from another nation, as is the case in this story. The word infers that their well-being is to be the chief object of my concern.

When I’ve shared my thoughts with others about this passage of scripture, I’ve mentioned there are a minimum of 5 people who are identified: The Victim, the Robber(s), the two religious people who walked by a person near death, and the Good Samaritan.

At times, I’ll ask the question, “which one of the five would you like to be most identified?”

For me, the role I identify with is that of the Good Samaritan. He came upon a “neighbor” who needed him and he responded with loving-kindness, tenderness, courage, and commitment.

As you begin 2019, who’s your neighbor and what will your response be to their need?

TeleHealth/Video counseling sessions are available for those who prefer to meet online – Dr. McGill