Luke 10:35
And on the morrow when he departed, hee tooke out two pence, and gaue them to the hoste, and saide vnto him, Take care of him, and whatsoeuer thou spendest more, when I come againe I will repay thee. Luke 10:35 (KJV)
Context: This verse is part of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which Jesus shared in response to a question posed by a lawyer regarding how to inherit eternal life. In this parable, Jesus illustrates the concept of loving one’s neighbor. In Luke 10:25‑37, Jesus tells the story of a man who was traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers, stripped, beaten, and left half‑dead by the roadside. A priest and a Levite both pass by the injured man without offering any assistance. However, a Samaritan, who was despised by the Jews, comes upon the wounded man, takes pity on him, and goes out of his way to help him. The Samaritan provides immediate aid, binding the man’s wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and carrying him to an inn where he cares for him. In Luke 10:35 the Samaritan gives two pence to the innkeeper and promises to repay any additional expenses when he returns. “And he went to the inn, and took care of him.” The Samaritan’s actions demonstrate compassion, generosity, and a willingness to assume responsibility for another’s well‑being.
The verse highlights several important lessons. Compassion and mercy are shown as the Samaritan stops to help a stranger in need and goes above societal expectations to provide care for someone who cannot repay him. Practical love is evident because he takes tangible steps, rather than empty words, to alleviate the wounded man’s suffering. Generosity is displayed by giving his own resources to ensure the injured person receives necessary care and attention. Responsibility is evident as he entrusts the innkeeper with ongoing care and promises to settle any further costs, showing accountability and follow‑through.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan challenges us to examine our attitudes and actions toward those in need. It teaches that true neighborly love goes beyond social boundaries and requires practical acts of compassion and mercy. We are called to show kindness, generosity, and a willingness to help others, regardless of their background or circumstances. Ultimately, Jesus concludes the parable by instructing the lawyer to “go and do likewise” (Luke 10:37), implying that we should emulate the Samaritan’s compassion and selflessness in our own lives, actively seeking opportunities to demonstrate love and care for those in need.
