Today the Gospel gives us the parable of the Good Samaritan.  It’s a parable we’ve heard many times.  An individual had been robbed and beaten.  Several people saw what had happened but they passed by.  It’s hard to tell what the motivations were of those who ignored the man who needed help. 

 A Samaritan passed by and gave aid to the man.  He saw someone in need and he responded to the need.  He took the injured man to an inn to be cared for.  He told the innkeeper to give the man whatever he needed.  In the Gospel, Jesus tells us to “go and do likewise.”  The Samaritan was indeed the good neighbor.  We also have many opportunities to be the good neighbor through simple acts of kindness and charity.