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"Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn,and took care of him" (Lk 10:34).                      Additional scripture passages: Genesis 18:4-5; Psalm 5:11-12.


Reflection
The man who fell into the hands of robbers was cared for by a Samaritan. The Samaritan saw beyond prejudice or bias. He saw someone in need and brought him to an inn. “The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, ‘Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend’” (Lk 10:35).

In any human society, hospitality and solidarity are essential. They require the welcoming of strangers, foreigners, migrants and homeless people. However, when faced with insecurity, suspicion and violence, we tend to mistrust our neighbours. Hospitality is an important witness to the Gospel, particularly in contexts of religious and cultural pluralism. Welcoming ‘the other’, and being welcomed in turn, is at the heart of ecumenical dialogue. Christians are challenged to turn our churches into inns where our neighbours can find Christ. Such hospitality is a sign of the love that our churches have for one another and for all.

When we as followers of Christ move beyond our confessional traditions and choose to practice ecumenical hospitality, we move from being strangers to being neighbours.

Discussion Question
Hospitality – in both ancient and modern times – requires offering safe spaces, making provision for welcoming and inclusive places and spaces (such as homes and places of worship). What is the personal cost to us when we take up the challenge of this parable to respond to need with abundant grace?

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