July 9, 2010
The Second Half
Making a difference
BY DEACON JIM AND ANN CAVERA
This past weekend we had the Cavera Family Reunion in Jim’s brother’s home on the shore of Lake Michigan. We were blessed with beautiful weather and a wonderful turnout. The family has grown both in numbers and in years and we have the distinction of being among the elders. The journey itself was an adventure but well worth it. We encountered lots of construction along our chosen route which slowed us down. On the return trip we came across a truck fire. Several people had already pulled off the road and were on their cell phones calling for help. When we saw the driver had gotten out safely, we felt we could go on. About a half mile down the road we passed the fire truck on its way. You never know what you are going to encounter on a busy highway.
Luke describes a similar event in the Gospel for this Sunday. A Priest, a Levite, and a Samaritan were traveling along the same road and came upon a man who had been robbed, severely beaten and left half dead along the side of the road. Jesus used this story in answer to the question, “Who is my neighbor.” We know the story well and we applaud the Samaritan who stopped to help. When we look beyond the Samaritan’s generous heart we discover a universal pattern for helping people in need.
All three of the travelers saw the man and knew he needed help. Awareness of the need is the first step in helping others. The first two men passed by. Jesus does not tell us why but scholars have made some assumptions based on the culture of the time. Mosaic Law stated anyone coming into contact with blood would be unclean and be required to go through a purification ritual. Whatever the reason, it really doesn’t matter. Only the Samaritan set aside his own agenda to care for the injured man. Giving up our own plans is the second step in providing help to others in need.
The third step requires us to go outside our comfort zone and get involved with the individual, taking the time to establish a relationship. The Samaritan gave his time to the man, binding his wounds, transporting him to a place for care, covering the cost, and promising to return. Today, it seems we are quick to contribute money to assist people in need but we are very reluctant to give of our time. Jesus’ parable applies to modern day travelers as easily as it did to disciples 2,000 years ago. We find the phrase “think globally, but act locally” gives us a good perspective as we journey along our road in life.
Meister Eckhart, a German theologian, philosopher and mystic wrote, “The way to holiness is to simply do the next thing you have to do with all your heart and soul and with delight.” Whether we are sending a monetary gift to a trusted organization to meet some global need, or setting our daily agenda aside to help a neighbor close at hand, we know we are choosing to stop by the side of the road with the Samaritan.
Deacon Jim and Ann Cavera are former residents of Evansville; their award-winning column is a regular feature of the Message. Contact them at www.catholicseniorspirit.com.