A Ride to the Inn

Luke 10:25-37

The Big Idea

Mercy means noticing someone who needs help and taking caring, practical action. Like the Samaritan, we can help safely and involve trusted adults when someone is hurt or in trouble.

The Bible Story

The Good Samaritan

In Luke 10:25–37, Jesus tells the parable of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who is attacked by robbers and left badly hurt. A priest and a Levite see him but pass by on the other side. A Samaritan sees him, has compassion, binds his wounds, pours on oil and wine, places him on his own animal, and brings him to an inn. He cares for the traveler and gives the innkeeper two denarii for continued care, promising to repay any additional cost. Jesus asks which person acted as a neighbor. The law expert answers, “The one who showed him mercy.” Jesus says, “You go, and do likewise.”

Themes

Compassion toward a person in need Crossing social boundaries Doing, rather than merely knowing, what is right Loving God and one’s neighbor Mercy expressed through practical action

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

The Samaritan carefully helps the wounded traveler onto his own animal for transport to an inn. The roadside and distant path communicate the journey, while the traveler’s supported posture shows care rather than distress.

Talk together

Talk about it

How did the Samaritan show mercy?
What safe, practical help could you offer someone in need?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page with Luke 10:25–37 in Sunday school, family devotion, church lessons, or classroom discussion. Invite children to notice the Samaritan’s steady care, while reminding them to seek a trusted adult for emergencies or serious injuries.

Source note