Well, How About That - Samaria

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Did you know that the area between Judea and Galilee was named after its prominent city: Samaria?
It was a culturally diverse city; comprised of Gentiles and Jews. Many Jews avoided traveling through the area because they hated the people.  Jesus made a point of traveling there to meet the Samaritan woman at Jacob's Well. 

Also remember the story of the good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-37. Jesus told a parable of the a man Jew who was beaten and robbed. Two Jews passed him by ignoring him and his distress. Then passes a Samaritan, an "enemy." The Samaritan not only cared for his wounds, but paid for his stay at an Inn to recover and promised to pay any and all expenses incurred during his recovery. 

We ought to remember the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:46-47 "If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?" That is quite the challenge Christ offered. Love your enemies.

Well, how about that?

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