The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is one of the most superb classics on the subject of Human Kindness in all literature.  We easily show compassion on those we love, but compassion can be difficult to offer to strangers or to people against whom we might feel a trace of prejudice.  It can be easy to justify a lack of compassion–we are too busy, we don’t want to risk helping, we don’t want to give too much, we don’t like “those” people.  But Jesus’ answer to the lawyer’s questions reveals that a neighbor is anyone of any race, creed, or social background; and a neighbor in need requires our compassion.  We can show compassion on others by releasing our agenda to help them.  It may mean giving time or resources; it may mean going out on a limb.  As we follow God’s guidance, we can be wise in our compassion, doing what will really help others.  The first step is to see every person as God’s creation and to be willing to be available when a need arises.  God will show us how to do the rest.