In our quest to make neighborly love a reality in our lives we have not only the inspiring example of the Good Samaritan but we have the magnanimous life of our Christ to guide us. He lived his days in persistent concern for the welfare of others. His altruism was universal in that he saw all men as brothers. He was a neighbor to the publicans and sinners. When he addressed God in the Lord’s Prayer, he said “Our Father,” which immediately lifted God above the category of a tribal deity concerned only about one race of people. His altruism was willing to travel dangerous roads in that he was willing to relinquish fame, fortune, and even life itself for a cause he knew was right. His altruism was excessive in that he didn’t have to die on a cross. His death on Calvary will always stand as history’s most magnificent expression of obedience to the unenforceable. “When I survey the wondrous cross on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gains I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride.”
– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., March 1963
