The Good Samaritan

On  a well-travelled route, the old Jericho Way,

So well known to many of us,

Went a man out alone on the ill-fated day

To a palm-treed old city of lust.

But afflicted by robbers, and wounded and stripped,

Left dying by merciless hands.

A spectacle sad for any who tripped

Down the road through the Palestine sands.

          So, will anyone stop for a soul in distress,

          And what could you possibly do?

          As you ponder your choice, you are put to the test-

What if Jesus had not stopped for you?

The clergy came up with his robes and his book,

And looked on the pitiful sight.

But his flock was at home, with no one to look,

So he passed by the opposite side.

The Levite, he likewise came strutting along

To observe with disinterested eye.

If only he had there that most august throng-

But no one was there to descry.

So, will anyone stop for a soul in distress,

          And what could you possibly do?

          As you ponder your choice, you are put to the test-

What if Jesus had not stopped for you?

Next, a stranger came up to the place where he lay-

An outcast Samaritan, he.

Rejected, he has no desire for display,

But was moved by a deep sympathy.

He bound up his wounds, poured in oil and wine-

Laid him on his beast that was there.

Took him to a place where they’re caring and kind

And promised all cost he would bear.

So, will anyone stop for a soul in distress,

          And what could you possibly do?

          As you ponder your choice, you are put to the test-

What if Jesus had not stopped for you?

Now, you’ve known this old story in Luke well indeed,

And enjoyed its great Gospel appeal,

But, have you got the point of the neighbour in need-

Poor lawyer, yet cynical still?

When you passed by that young soul so cocky (for sure),

Did you greet him with friendship so rare?

Or speak to the sullen to bring him some cheer-

Did you stop, just a moment to spare?

So, will anyone stop for a soul in distress,

          And what could you possibly do?

          As you ponder your choice, you are put to the test-

            What if Jesus had not stopped for you?              

Mark Humber 1999

My disgust with religious pretence.