The Good Samaritan? Certainly closer than most

The Samaritan in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) didn't really go out of his way to see the man in need. He just didn't get out of the way, as did the priest and Levite. Sometimes I think it's more a matter of opening our eyes to the needs around us as we go along our way, as opposed to avoiding opportunities or even seeking them. Sometimes opportunities happen even while we do things we love like fishing, or yard work (I'm sure someone likes it).

While no "Good Samaritan" stories seem to exemplify the actual parable-and there's probably a reason for that as Jesus is the true good Samaritan-this one comes a little closer. While fishing with his girlfriend, Ted Larsen, Bucs starting Offensive Guard for much of last season, played that role by rescuing a few overturned kayakers.

Here are some similarities....

Enemies: Samaritans and Jews were enemies. Kayakers and boaters are enemies. Not necessarily bitter enemies, as some folks like myself "cross-over," but both sides share a respectable (at best) resentment towards one another while on the water. I have to say that I still don't mind seeing a boat run aground when trying to get to places only kayaks can go.

Cost: And it did cost Larsen. It cost him fishing time and gas to bring them in. With real love for those in need, there is always a cost. An exchange.

Location: While he and his girlfriend didn't just "happen" to cross their path, he was already in the area fishing when he responded to the Coast Guard call.

Instead of breaking the law, as has been common place with several Bucs this offseason, it's nice to see the law fulfilled in love (Galatians 5:14) for a change. Of course if the Seinfeldian version, not the actual "Good Samaritan Law" ever became codified in the States, I guess we would probably not think so highly of "Good Samaritan's" anymore.