The Parable of the Good Samaritan is found in the book of Luke 10:30-35 in the Bible. This retelling of the story can be found in both the Godly Play and Young Children and Worship books.
The Good Samaritan had a crash course in compassion. He studied the condition of Pharisee (who was beat up, robbed and left to die on a desolate road) and acted quickly. He bandaged the wounded man. Carried that man to town and then paid the innkeeper to take care of him until he was healed. Maybe because the spirit moved him. Maybe because he was paying it forward. Maybe because someone once extended compassion to him. The important part is that he s t e p p e d o u t of his comfort zone and used his resources.
It is comforting when someone shows us compassion. Compassion is more than merely recognizing that someone is carrying a heavy burden, and then sympathizing with them—it is actually doing something to lighten their load. The Good Samaritan was willing to cross political, racial, cultural and social barriers and risk prejudices and the fear of the unknown because he saw someone with a need and he had the resources to meet that need.
This Sunday School lesson offers links to crafts, books, videos, games and coloring pages about compassion for ourselves and others. Consider finding something comfortable to do and then stretch yourself with something new!