Being for Another
The 13th Sunday after Trinity reminds us that our lives are not meant to be lived for ourselves alone but for others. Inspired by the Parable of the Good Samaritan, we are encouraged to ask not, “Who is my neighbor?” but rather, “For whom am I a neighbor?”
This subtle shift in perspective invites us into a deeper understanding of love: one that transcends boundaries and conditions. As one Christian reflection puts it (my translation):
“Those who believe in Jesus Christ cannot remain unmoved by the needs of others. They will do everything in their power to help, even if it brings them disadvantages.”
The first part of this statement rings true for any follower of Christ. But what about the second? Are we truly called to help others, even at personal cost? Does Christian love require such sacrifice?
At first glance, yes. The love of neighbor does involve sacrifice, and at times, that may bring discomfort or disadvantage. Yet this leads us to a more challenging question:
Does love require qualification? Do we need to ask who deserves it, or whether it will be received rightly?
This question becomes even more pressing in the context of today’s world, particularly with the ongoing refugee crisis in parts of Europe. Compassion meets complexity. Generosity meets political tension. And faith is called to speak into both.
Scripture provides us with a profound insight: true love calls for a true response.
When Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery, He said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more” (John 8:11).
When Zacchaeus encountered the mercy of Christ, he responded, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold” (Luke 19:8).
Do these responses make God’s love conditional? No. But they remind us that genuine love invites transformation. The gift of grace is not meant to be abused or taken for granted; it calls us to change, to give, and to live differently.
We who are blessed are called to share generously. But likewise, those who receive must also be stewards of the blessing. As Jesus said, “Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required” (Luke 12:48).
In God’s economy, there is no such thing as a gift without purpose, and certainly not a gift that fosters ingratitude or irresponsibility.
As the world around us grows increasingly polarized, politically and socially, let us return to the wisdom of Scripture. Let us learn, with humility, what it truly means to be a neighbor: not only to give love but to embody the kind of love that transforms both the giver and the receiver.