The answer is: Gave two pence to provide care

Luke 10 v 35

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, we see a remarkable example of compassion and hospitality that transcends societal barriers. When the Samaritan encountered the wounded man, he didn’t just offer a band-aid and move along; he actively sought to ensure the man's ongoing care. By giving two pence—likely equivalent to a couple of days’ wages—he provided for both immediate medical needs and further assistance. His generosity was a significant expression of empathy and a break from the deeply entrenched hostilities between Samaritans and Jews at the time.

What's intriguing about this parable is how Jesus plays on the idea of who is your neighbor. The Samaritan, often viewed with disdain by the Jewish people, turned out to be the hero of the story, while professional religious figures were too self-absorbed to help. It flips social expectations upside down and ignites empathy toward even those seen as unworthy.

Trivia: Did you know that in ancient times, ‘pence’ were often used for various measures of value beyond just money? The coins could represent buying goods, contributing to community needs, or even funding social welfare. In essence, the Samaritan provided something sacred: the acknowledgment that love and care are central to community life.

The echoes of this parable resonate throughout subsequent teachings about kindness and justice. The call to love one’s neighbor reverberates through ages and challenges us personally: who in our own lives needs a helping hand?