Luke 10:33–35 CEB

33 A Samaritan, who was on a journey, came to where the man was. But when he saw him, he was moved with compassion. 34 The Samaritan went to him and bandaged his wounds, tending them with oil and wine. Then he placed the wounded man on his own donkey, took him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 The next day, he took two full days’ worth of wages and gave them to the innkeeper. He said, ‘Take care of him, and when I return, I will pay you back for any additional costs.’

Compassionate Engagement: Going Beyond Words

In our modern world, discussions about investing often flood our social media feeds, with everyone offering their take on where and how to invest money. Amidst this noise of opinions, a distinction stands out—the concept of having "skin in the game." This phrase, rooted in the world of horse racing, embodies a profound principle: those who have invested their own resources, who have something at stake, often offer the most weighty advice.

Consider the horse owner who enters their prized animal into a race. They don't just watch from the sidelines; they have their "skin"—literally, the horse's skin—in the race. The outcome directly impacts them, shaping their decisions and strategies. This idea transcends the racetrack; it's a principle echoed in the world of finance, where seasoned investors like Warren Buffett emphasize the significance of having personal investments at risk. When you have "skin in the game," it's not just about words or opinions; it's about tangible commitment and accountability.

In the parable commonly known as the Good Samaritan, Jesus delves into this concept of "skin in the game" through a narrative that vividly illustrates the power of personal investment in acts of love and compassion. Picture the Jericho Road, winding its way towards Jerusalem—a route teeming with travelers, both ordinary and significant. Among them, a man falls victim to brutal robbery and assault, stripped of not just his possessions but his dignity and safety as well.

Enter the characters in Jesus's tale—a priest, a Levite, and a Samaritan—each representing a distinct approach to having "skin in the game." The priest, a figure entrusted with spiritual leadership and service, encounters the wounded man. One might expect immediate aid, demonstrating his divine calling in action. Yet, to the surprise of the onlookers in Jesus's narrative, the priest chooses to sidestep the scene, perhaps weighed down by concerns that didn't prioritize the immediate, tangible needs before him.

Next, the Levite—a companion to the priest in matters of religious duty—passes by. Again, the expectation of aid is subverted as he, too, opts for distance rather than involvement. Despite their roles steeped in service and obligation, neither the priest nor the Levite engage in the vulnerable, messy reality of the wounded man's plight. They lack "skin in the game," a personal investment that propels action beyond mere observation.

Then comes the Samaritan—an unlikely hero in the eyes of Jesus's audience, given the historical tensions between Samaritans and Jews. Here, the narrative takes a profound turn. The Samaritan doesn't just see; he acts. His compassion transcends societal divides and personal biases, compelling him to invest not just his time and effort but his resources and care. In a world where prejudice and self-interest often dictate actions, the Samaritan's choice to put "skin in the game" embodies the transformative power of genuine compassion.

So, what does it mean for us today to have "skin in the game"? It's a challenge to move beyond passive observation, beyond the comfort of opinions and beliefs, into the realm of tangible action and investment in the well-being of others. Like the Samaritan, we're called to bridge divides, defy expectations, and invest our resources, time, and hearts in acts of love and compassion that transcend barriers and transform lives.

In our journey of faith and service, may we echo the example of the Samaritan, recognizing that true impact requires not just words or sentiments but the profound commitment of having "skin in the game."

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus vividly describes a world where actions speak louder than words, where genuine compassion requires more than good intentions—it demands personal investment and involvement.

The story unfolds on the treacherous Jericho Road, a path known for its dangers and uncertainties. Here, a traveler falls victim to a brutal attack, robbed not only of his possessions but of his dignity and safety. The assault leaves him battered, bleeding, and on the brink of death—a stark reminder of the harsh realities that often lurk in the shadows of our journeys.

Enter the characters in this tale, each representing a facet of human response when confronted with suffering. First, the priest is a figure of religious authority and service, someone expected to embody the teachings of love and compassion. As he encounters the wounded traveler, one might anticipate an immediate outpouring of aid, reflecting his sacred duty to care for those in need. Yet, in a surprising twist, the priest distances himself, averts his gaze, and passes by on the opposite side of the road. His actions—or rather, his lack thereof—reveal a reluctance to engage, a hesitance to put his own "skin in the game" of compassion.

Next, we meet the Levite—a companion to the priest in matters of religious service and duty. With a background accustomed to assisting in temple rituals and acts of service, the Levite embodies a similar expectation of compassionate action. Yet, like the priest before him, the Levite opts for avoidance, choosing to circumvent the scene rather than extend a helping hand. Despite their roles steeped in service and obligation, the priest and the Levite fall short of genuinely investing themselves in the plight of the wounded traveler.

Then comes the unexpected figure—the Samaritan. In the socio-religious context of Jesus's audience, Samaritans and Jews exist as estranged neighbors, bound by centuries of hate and division. The Samaritan's very presence in this narrative challenges preconceived notions and societal norms. And yet, it is precisely this unlikely Samaritan who embodies the essence of having "skin in the game."

When the Samaritan encounters the wounded traveler, he doesn't just see a victim—he sees a fellow human in desperate need. His response is not dictated by religious affiliation or cultural biases but by genuine compassion and empathy. He tends to the traveler's wounds, provides for his immediate needs, and ensures his ongoing care—a demonstration of personal investment that transcends barriers and prejudices.

In contrast to the priest and the Levite, who chose the path of indifference, the Samaritan's actions speak volumes about the transformative power of compassion when backed by personal commitment. He didn't just stop to offer condolences or prayers from a safe distance; he got involved, put his resources and time on the line, and made a tangible difference in someone's life.

As we reflect on this timeless parable, may we heed its lesson—that true compassion requires more than good intentions or convenient gestures. It demands that we roll up our sleeves, step into the messy realities of human suffering, and invest ourselves—our time, resources, and hearts—in acts of love that leave an indelible mark of healing and hope.

In our journey of faith and service, may we strive to be like the Samaritan, breaking barriers, defying expectations, and showing the world what it truly means to have "skin in the game" of compassion.

The first move in putting skin in the game was stopping and moving toward the victim.

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the first transformative step in putting 'skin in the game' was the Samaritan's act of stopping and moving toward the victim. This seemingly straightforward action carried profound significance, marking the beginning of a life-altering journey of compassion and personal investment.

Imagine the scene on that Jericho Road—the Samaritan, amidst his travels and agenda, encounters the wounded traveler. He doesn't just glance from a distance or offer a fleeting prayer; he stops, interrupts his plans, and intentionally moves toward the victim. This act of physical proximity speaks volumes about the Samaritan's commitment to engaging with the immediate needs before him.

He didn't stay in his comfort zone or remain detached; he got close enough to see the extent of the victim's injuries to assess what was needed for immediate aid. This bold approach reflects a crucial aspect of compassion—it's not passive or distant but active and engaged.

One remarkable aspect of the Samaritan's response is his proactive decision to offer assistance without waiting for the victim to request it. In situations of desperate need, such as the one in the parable, expecting the victim to articulate their needs is often impractical. Some individuals may be too overwhelmed, ashamed, or proud to openly seek help. Acknowledging this, the Samaritan takes the lead, illustrating that love transcends mere words or expectations.

This proactive stance carries profound implications for our approach to ministry and compassion today. It challenges the notion of passively waiting for needy individuals to come to us, whether within the church or broader community settings. Rather than setting predefined times and locations for assistance, Samaritan's example urges us to go where the needs are and actively seek out opportunities to make a difference.

Heroes, in acts of compassion, are not bound by convenience or comfort; they relocate themselves to the spaces of need, becoming tangible expressions of love and care. This often requires overcoming personal barriers—those internal voices that say, "I can't help," or "It's not my problem." Past experiences of disappointment or skepticism may reinforce these barriers, leading us to turn away from opportunities to extend a helping hand.

However, the Samaritan's narrative teaches us that when our spirit is willing to move toward the hurting, these barriers begin to crumble. We see beyond preconceptions and fears, recognizing the humanity and dignity of those in need. In these moments of intentional engagement, we discover the privilege and responsibility of being Christlike advocates, embodying love in action.

Let us take to heart the lesson of the Samaritan—to actively move toward those in need, to fully engage in the game of compassion. By doing so, we not only impact lives but also transform our own hearts, dismantling walls of indifference and awakening to the profound call of love in action.

The next move is to look for wounds we can help with.

The next move is to look for wounds we can help with. Once the Samaritan was close enough, he could see exactly where the wounds were located, so he could know where to bandage them to stop the bleeding.

In medical terms, this is called triage. Triage means to assess the urgency of the various needs and what is required for treatment. Prioritizing needs begins with discovering the various wounds. In practical terms, this may mean helping needy people in a number of immediate (or short-term) ways before they can be helped in long-term ways. It may mean getting them food or a temporary place to stay. It may be helping with a tank of gas or a ride to work. It may mean helping get their electricity turned back on. It may be providing needed clothing or temporary childcare.

The type of bandaging depends on the kind of wound. For some victims, the wounds can be overwhelming, and figuring out where to start may be paralyzing. Bandages may need to be physical, financial, mental/psychiatric, emotional, or practical in other ways.

The next is to Apply medicines as needed.

Verse 34 shows the Samaritan taking further medical steps to heal the wounds by pouring oil and wine on them. Oil and wine were antibacterial medicines used for wound care, but these physical symbols also have spiritual implications. Oil symbolizes the pouring of the Holy Spirit, and wine represents the new covenant by which sins are forgiven so we might receive life and healing in his name.

James 5:14–15 says

James 5:14–15 CEB

14 If any of you are sick, they should call for the elders of the church, and the elders should pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 Prayer that comes from faith will heal the sick, for the Lord will restore them to health. And if they have sinned, they will be forgiven.

We must be careful when offering to pray for people’s needs, especially in communities and situations outside our church walls. Many may appreciate it, but sometimes people “need to know how much we care before they can care about how much we know.” In other words, prayer isn’t always meaningful to everyone, so if we want to pray directly with someone, we should always ask for their consent and respect their wishes if they say no. Of course, we can offer private prayers for anyone at any time. Still, it’s essential to respect the boundaries of people who have expressed an aversion to being prayed for or with. When someone does consent to be prayed for, what a fantastic opportunity we have to let them know God is the one who brings ultimate healing and God who invites us to be part of the family of God—the body of Christ.

Get additional help

After the Samaritan applied first aid and tended to the victim's immediate needs, he took the crucial next step—he transported the wounded man to a local care facility to ensure he received the additional help and care necessary for his recovery. Going beyond the initial aid highlights an essential aspect of compassionate service—recognizing the broader network of support and resources available to address complex needs.

In our modern context, it's vital for victims to know that they are not alone in their struggles and that there are numerous believers within the community who are willing and ready to offer assistance. Compassionate action is not about individual heroism but about collective involvement. Just as the Samaritan sought help when he realized the extent of the victim's needs, we, too, must acknowledge the power of collaboration within the body of Christ.

Some victims face overwhelming challenges that require the combined efforts of multiple members of the body of Christ. The church's diversity of gifts and abilities enables a holistic approach to healing and support. Recognizing this diversity reminds us that we are not meant to bear the burden of caregiving alone. The body of Christ functions as a unified entity, each member contributing their unique gifts and talents to serve others.

The concept of healing as a team effort underscores the interconnectedness of believers in fulfilling God's work of restoration and wholeness. Your willingness to extend a helping hand, whether in bandaging wounds, providing emotional support, or offering practical assistance, can serve as a catalyst for inspiring others within the church community to engage actively in compassionate service.

Moreover, understanding healing within a theological framework emphasizes the holistic nature of salvation. God's concern extends beyond individual salvation to encompass the full spectrum of human experience—body, soul, and spirit. The body of Christ, acting in unity and love, becomes the instrument through which God's healing and transformative power flow into every aspect of life and relationships.

Therefore, let us embrace the reality that we are part of a larger community of believers, each playing a vital role in God's mission of healing and restoration. As we work together, leveraging our collective gifts and resources, we become conduits of God's love and agents of holistic healing in a broken world.

Healing often requires sacrifice.

Healing often demands sacrifices that extend beyond mere gestures of kindness. The Samaritan exemplified this truth through his willingness to sacrifice his time, energy, and resources to aid the needy man. He didn't just offer superficial assistance; he poured oil and wine on the wounds, used his own supplies to bandage them, and even went as far as using his own animal to transport the injured man to a place where he could receive further care. The Samaritan's sacrificial actions didn't end there—he also took on the financial burden, covering the immediate expenses and promising to reimburse any additional costs incurred during his absence.

This extraordinary display of personal sacrifice mirrors the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would later make for humanity. Jesus, as the good shepherd, laid down his life for his sheep, offering everything—including his very life—for the redemption and restoration of others (John 10:11). His sacrificial love serves as a compelling example for us, calling us to emulate his selflessness in our own acts of service and compassion.

Know your limits

However, amidst the call to sacrificial giving, it's crucial to recognize and respect our own limitations. While the Samaritan went to great lengths to help the wounded man, he also knew when to step back and attend to his other responsibilities. He didn't allow his compassion to overshadow his obligations to his family, work, or personal commitments.

This balance is emphasized in Paul's instruction to Timothy about providing for one's relatives and household.

1 Timothy 5:8 CEB

8 But if someone doesn’t provide for their own family, and especially for a member of their household, they have denied the faith. They are worse than those who have no faith.

It reminds us that while we are called to sacrificial love and service, we must also prioritize our responsibilities and not neglect our own well-being and that of our families.

Understanding our limits doesn't diminish our willingness to help others; instead, it allows us to serve effectively without burning out or neglecting essential aspects of our lives. It's about seeking wisdom and discernment, praying for guidance, and trusting God to lead us in balancing our sacrificial giving with responsible stewardship.

Moreover, we are part of a larger community—the body of Christ—where each member plays a role in meeting the diverse needs of others. By collaborating with fellow believers and utilizing our collective gifts, abilities, and time, we can address a broader spectrum of needs and ensure that no one person bears the entire burden alone.

In essence, sacrificial love is not about depletion or self-neglect but about wise and intentional giving that aligns with God's guidance and the support of the Christian community. It's a journey of compassion that acknowledges both the call to sacrificial love and the importance of healthy boundaries and responsibility.

Compassionate Engagement: Going Beyond Words

The Samaritan's example of putting "skin in the game" is a powerful illustration of compassionate action that Jesus commends and encourages us all to emulate. When Jesus says, "Go and do likewise," he extends that call to each of us, urging us to actively engage in acts of love, compassion, and service.

Just as the Samaritan hero sacrificed his time, resources, and effort to help the wounded man, we too are called to sacrificially give of ourselves for the well-being of others. Jesus himself exemplified this principle through his ultimate act of selflessness—giving his life for our salvation. He put all of his "skin in the game" to demonstrate the depth of God's love and redemption.

In response to Jesus's call to "Go and do likewise," we are prompted to reflect on our own lives and actions. How are we putting "skin in the game" in our daily interactions and engagements? Do we see a needy person, and if so, how can we respond with compassion and practical help? These questions challenge us to move beyond passive empathy to active involvement in meeting the needs around us.

As a church community, we are also called to extend our collective efforts in blessing our community and addressing the various needs within and beyond our congregation. This may involve initiatives such as outreach programs, community service projects, or support networks for vulnerable individuals. By discerning where God is calling us to help and responding with genuine compassion and action, we embody the transformative power of love in action.

Ultimately, putting "skin in the game" is about embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways, reaching out to the marginalized, the hurting, and the overlooked with genuine care and support. It's a call to live out our faith not just in words but in deeds, making a real difference in the lives of those around us and glorifying God through acts of compassion and service.