Who is my neighbour?

To get favour from the Galatians, the Judaizers accused Paul of preaching an easy Gospel, that is why Paul states in today's first reading that, there is no other Gospel from the one he preached. In fact he expresses disbelief that the Galatians shifted immediately to another Gospel without verification. Thus, Paul utters a curse on those who preach any other Gospel than that of salvation in Christ. The Gospel of Christ invites us to extend fraternal charity to those in need. Hence, in today's Gospel, Jesus provides answers to the questions of who our neighbour is and what to do to attain Eternal life.

Eternal life is not only attained by our knowledge of the divine person but with personal encounter with God. A neighbour is not determined by the physical proximity but by the willingness to offer a helping hand to one who is in dare need of help. As we begin another week, like the Good Samaritan, we are called to exercise the same kind of compassion towards others. We are challenged never to pass by a suffering person with indifference. We are invited to learn from the Good Samaritan to stop and spend time with one who maybe in need of physical or spiritual solace. Through this compassion, people will see Christ present in us.

May the Lord be with us and with everyone we meet this week and help us to build a just and peaceful society! Amen!! Good morning and have a productive week!!!