Jesus: Verily, consider the Parable of the Good Samaritan. A man journeyed from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his raiment, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
John: Master, I recall in the parable, a priest and a Levite passed by the wounded man, yet offered no assistance.
Jesus: Indeed, John. Both saw the man, but they crossed to the other side and continued on their way.
Peter: But it was the Samaritan, a man from a group often scorned, who showed compassion, was it not?
Jesus: Precisely, Peter. The Samaritan, upon seeing the man, was moved with compassion. He went to him, bound up his wounds, and took care of him.
Andrew: What, then, do you teach us through this parable?
Jesus: The lesson is manifold. First, love your neighbor as yourself, transcending cultural and societal boundaries. The Samaritan acted as a neighbor to the injured man, despite their cultural differences.
Thomas: Is there also a lesson in the actions of the priest and Levite?
Jesus: Yes, Thomas. Their failure to act reminds us that knowledge of the law or scripture is not enough; one must live out the principles of love and compassion. It is in our actions, not just in our beliefs, that we truly serve God.
Bartholomew: So, to inherit eternal life, we must show mercy to all, as the Samaritan did?
Jesus: Correct, Bartholomew. Go and do likewise. Show mercy, love without limits, and act with compassion towards all, for in this way, you truly embody the commandments of God.
