The Lord will remember his covenant for ever. — Psalm 111:5

Mass Readings: Galatians 1:6-12 / Luke 10:25-37 

Mercy Me 

I recently went to a training in downtown Houston where, during lunch breaks, I encountered beggars on nearly every street corner. On the first day, I embodied the priest and Levite in today’s Gospel, passing them by in an air of self-justification and superiority. I assumed them to be bad people who deserved their plight, and though I had the power to help them, I walked away. 

As I was leaving the restaurant on the second day, a shriveled woman pleaded that I give her a quarter. My first impulse was to ignore her, but the Spirit wouldn’t allow it. I handed her my take-out box, and though I didn’t show mercy to the extent of the Good Samaritan, at least I walked in his path for a few steps. 

Prayer: Merciful God, show me the path of salvation.