For me the Good Samaritan reminds us that even despised people (as the Samaritans were considered by the Jews) are capable of mercy and are part of the People of God. All are made in the image and likeness of God and from that derive their dignity and rights.
All the Good Samaritan was doing was to obey the Golden Rule "Do unto others as you would be done unto", which Jesus rephrased as "Love thy neighbour as thyself." And I think it was Pope Benedict who said your neighbour is anyone who needs your help.
The parable reminds me not to expect too much from priests just because they are priests because they are human and not perfect. Some are close to perfect and some are far from it!
Another thing that strikes me is that charity, mercy and love can be found in the most unlikely places.
JPIC
