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Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise” (Lk 10:37). Additional scripture passages: Romans 12:9-13; Psalm 41:1-2.

Reflection
Through these words – “Go and do likewise” – Jesus sends each of us, and each of our churches, to live out his commandment to love. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, we are sent out to be “other Christs”, reaching out to suffering humanity in compassion and mercy. Like the Good Samaritan towards the injured man, we can choose not to reject those who are different, but instead cultivate a culture of proximity and goodwill.

How does Jesus’ invitation to “Go and do likewise” speak to my life? What does this call of Christ imply for my relationships with members of other churches? How can we charitably bear witness together to God’s love? As ambassadors for Christ (cf. 2 Cor 5:20), we are called to be reconciled to God and to one another, for fellowship to take root and grow in our churches and in areas affected by inter-communal conflict, such as the Sahel region.

As mutual trust and confidence increase, we will become more willing to reveal our wounds, including ecclesial wounds, that Christ’s love may visit and heal us through each other’s love and care. Striving together for Christian unity helps rebuild relationships, so that violence can give way to solidarity and peace.

Discussion Questions
• The lawyer is given a challenge as the story concludes: “Go and do likewise”. Does the lawyer rise up to the challenge Jesus offers him or, like many, does he go sadly away for reasons known only to him?
• How were you challenged by the stories and insights that have emerged over these Eight Days to “go and do likewise”? What opportunities await you in your particular context to “go and do likewise”?

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