Because many people would rather hear something that makes them feel good than something that calls them to conversion.
And sadly, some priests, and even myself, hesitate to preach the hard truths, fearing we might offend.
But the homily is not a TED Talk, it is not a vlog. It’s not meant to entertain or to boost self-esteem.
But it is a sacred moment where Christ speaks, calling His people to repentance, holiness and mission. It must be rooted in Scripture, tradition and sound doctrine.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan cuts straight through sentimental Christianity. Jesus shows us that love isn’t just about emotions or kind words — it’s about action.
It’s about sacrifice. It’s about loving people who are difficult to love, helping even when it’s inconvenient, and crossing boundaries that society tells us to keep.
This parable speaks to us today: who are we passing by? Is it the colleague we avoid? The elderly relative we’ve neglected.
The stranger we judge too quickly? Sometimes, the “wounded man on the roadside” is in our own home — our spouse, our child, our parent.
We’re not just called to admire the Samaritan — we’re called to be him.
The term ‘Good Samaritan’ has become so familiar, so overused, that it sometimes loses its weight.
It has become shorthand for ‘a good person’, someone who helps.
But if we are honest, many of us are content with simply admiring the Samaritan from a distance, applauding his goodness without imitating his sacrifice.
Yet Jesus doesn’t tell this story so we can say, “Wow, what a nice guy.”
He tells it to challenge us. He’s asking us: Will you be the one to stop? Will you give your time, your comfort, your convenience to help someone others would rather ignore?
We are called to be Good Samaritans — but being one is not automatic.
It requires a daily choice. We still have to say yes.
So here is the challenge: This week, stop for someone you would normally pass by. Love someone who cannot repay you.
Do something merciful that costs you something.
And reflect — are you walking past Christ without even realising it?
Let us not settle for shallow faith or surface-level kindness.
Let us love boldly, truthfully and sacrificially.
Fr Novie Lim
St Mary’s Catholic Church Echuca
