- Thornville Church - Your Source for Biblical Inspiration Exploring Daily Verses, Bible Stories, and Archaeological Discoveries

Guardians of Time: Ancient Churches That Withstood Empires and Eras

Thorn Ville Church – Across continents and centuries, scattered in deserts, mountains, and city ruins, stand the silent witnesses of history ancient churches that have endured the fall of empires, survived wars, and remained unshaken by the passing of eras. These remarkable structures are more than just buildings they are guardians of time, bearing testimony to human devotion, architectural brilliance, and spiritual resilience.

Often built when Christianity was still finding its place in a pagan world, these churches have not only survived natural and political upheavals, but continue to inspire millions. Their walls are etched with stories, their altars still rever, and their presence remains a spiritual anchor for both believers and historians alike.

The Church of the Nativity – Bethlehem, Palestine

One of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world, the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem marks the spot Guardians of time where Christians believe Jesus Christ was born. Originally commissioned in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine and his mother Helena, this church has stood for over 1,600 years weathering the rise and fall of Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Crusader, and Ottoman rule.

Its endurance through centuries of conflict and religious transformation is nothing short of miraculous. The church’s iconic basilica and underground grotto continue to draw pilgrims from around the globe. Restoration efforts in recent decades have revealed early mosaics and columns, offering glimpses into the rich heritage of the early Christian era.

Saint Catherine’s Monastery – Sinai Peninsula, Egypt

Tucked away at the foot of Mount Sinai, Saint Catherine’s Monastery is a marvel of endurance and interfaith respect. Built in the 6th century under the order of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this monastery is not only one of the oldest functioning Christian monasteries, but also houses one of the world’s richest collections of Christian manuscripts and icons.

What’s remarkable is that Saint Catherine’s has survived numerous conquests and invasions, in part due to its protective alliances, including a historical letter of protection reportedly signed by the Prophet Muhammad. This unique heritage has helped the monastery remain a neutral and sacred place for both Christians and Muslims.

The Etchmiadzin Cathedral – Vagharshapat, Armenia

Considered the oldest cathedral in the world, the Etchmiadzin Cathedral was build in the early 4th century soon after Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as its state religion. Serving as the spiritual heart of the Armenian Apostolic Church, the cathedral is a living emblem of national identity and religious endurance.

Despite being damage by earthquakes, sieges, and invasions ranging from Persian to Mongol empires it has always restore and rever. Today, Etchmiadzin is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a powerful symbol of faith that unites Armenians across the guardians of time.

The Church of Saint George – Lalibela, Ethiopia

Carved entirely out of solid rock in the 12th century, the Church of Saint George (Bete Giyorgis) in Lalibela is one of the most iconic of Ethiopia’s eleven monolithic churches. Built during the reign of King Lalibela, these churches were designed to serve as a “New Jerusalem” during a time when travel to the Holy Land was too dangerous.

What sets Saint George apart is not just its architectural wonder, but the fact that it has survived centuries of political turbulence, from regional warfare to European colonization attempts. Today, it remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage, a symbol of Ethiopian Christianity’s unique legacy.

The Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey

Few religious structures have undergone as many transformations as the Hagia Sophia. Originally built in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it served as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral for nearly 1,000 years. Following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque. In 1935, it became a museum, and in 2020, it was again reclassified as a mosque.

Throughout these changes, Hagia Sophia has remained an architectural masterpiece and spiritual icon, representing both the tension and harmony between empires, cultures, and religions. Its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and layered history make it one of the most fascinating ancient churches still standing.

Cultural Continuity Through Sacred Stone

What these churches have in common is not just their age or architectural marvel, but their role as cultural anchors in times of change. They are places where rituals have remained uninterrupted, where communities have gathered through plague, persecution, peace, and prosperity.

These ancient churches also reflect the cross-cultural exchanges that have shaped religious architecture Roman arches blended with Eastern domes, Christian iconography protected under Islamic rulers, and Gothic towers rising from pagan foundations. They prove that sacred spaces can evolve yet still hold onto the spiritual energy that first brought them to life.

Miracles of the Bible: Divine Moments That Changed History

Bible Stories

Thorn Ville Church – Throughout the centuries, few texts have captured the imagination and faith of billions like the Bible. At the heart of its narrative are extraordinary acts miracles of the bible that defy natural laws, ignite awe, and offer proof of divine presence and intervention. These miracles are more than stories; they are pivotal moments that shaped the spiritual journey of nations, leaders, and ordinary people alike.

Whether it was the parting of seas, fire falling from heaven, or the blind receiving sight, these events mark the Bible not only as a sacred text but as a record of transformative power. Let’s explore some of the most iconic miracles from both the Old and New Testaments, and how they altered the course of history.

The Parting of the Red Sea: A Miracle of Liberation

Arguably one of the most cinematic moments in the Bible, the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14 is a symbol of deliverance. When the Israelites, led by Moses, found themselves trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s advancing army, all hope seemed lost. But in an act of divine power, God instructed Moses to stretch out his hand, and the sea divided allowing the Israelites to pass through on dry ground.

This Miracles of the Bible was more than physical salvation; it was the birth of a free people, the Israelites, whose survival and spiritual legacy would echo across generations. It represents how God intervenes not only to protect but to establish a new future for His people.

Elijah and the Fire from Heaven: A Miracle of Authority

In 1 Kings 18, the prophet Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel in a dramatic display of power. As a test of whose deity is true, both sides prepare offerings but do not light the fire. Baal’s followers cry out in vain, but Elijah prays once and fire from heaven consumes his offering.

This miracle reaffirmed the sovereignty of God over false idols and restored faith in a time of spiritual confusion. It wasn’t just a moment of divine spectacle it reestablished divine authority in a wavering nation and validated Elijah as a true prophet of God.

Jesus Heals the Blind Man: A Miracle of Compassion and Revelation

The New Testament brims with miracles that reveal Jesus not just as a teacher, but as a healer and Son of God. One such event is record in John 9, where Jesus heals a man born blind. With mud and saliva, He restores sight not just physically, but spiritually.

This miracle highlights how divine power brings both healing and insight. It was not simply about restoring vision it was about revealing truth, identity, and belief. Jesus’ miracles often addressed both body and soul, calling people to deeper transformation.

The Resurrection of Lazarus: A Miracle of Hope Beyond Death

Among Jesus’ most stunning miracles is the raising of Lazarus from the dead (John 11). After four days in the tomb, Lazarus walks out alive at Jesus’ command. This wasn’t just an act of compassion for Mary and Martha, Lazarus’ sisters it was a powerful foreshadowing of Jesus’ own resurrection and a public display that life and death are under divine command.

In a world dominated by suffering and uncertainty, the miracle of the bible echoes a message of ultimate hope: that even death does not have the final word when God intervenes.

Feeding the Five Thousand: A Miracle of Provision

Recorded in all four Gospels, the feeding of the 5,000 is one of the most widely recognized miracles of Jesus. With only five loaves of bread and two fish, He fed thousands, leaving baskets of leftovers. It wasn’t just about physical nourishment it signified Jesus’ role as the Bread of Life.

This miracles of the bible illustrates God’s capacity for multiplication, care, and abundance, especially when resources seem scarce. It reassures believers that divine provision can exceed human expectations, even in the most improbable circumstances.

Walking on Water: A Miracle of Sovereignty Over Nature

In Matthew 14, Jesus walks on water to reach His disciples who are caught in a storm. The miracle is striking not just for its supernatural defiance of gravity, but for its symbolism of divine authority over chaos and fear.

Peter, attempting to walk toward Jesus, begins to sink when doubt creeps in. The episode becomes a spiritual metaphor: when faith wavers, we fall but when we focus on Christ, we rise above the storm. This miracle speaks deeply to personal struggles, encouraging trust in divine power over the elements.

Miracles in Modern Reflection: Why These Stories Still Matter

While miracles of the Bible happened thousands of years ago, their message continues to resonate today. They remind us that God is not a distant force, but an active presence in the human story. Each miracle challenges the natural order, yet affirms divine purpose: to heal, to lead, to provide, and to restore.

In a world often overwhelmed by uncertainty, these miraculous moments offer anchors of faith. They encourage believers to expect the impossible, to trust beyond reason, and to see beyond what’s visible. Whether interpreted literally or spiritually, miracles are a call to see the hand of God in the midst of everyday life and to believe that history, both personal and collective, can still be changed by divine intervention.

Holy Encounters: The Supernatural Legacy of the First Believers

Daily Bible Verse

Thorn Ville Church – The rise of the early Church was not only marked by teachings of love, grace, and salvation it was deeply rooted in supernatural Holy Encounters. From the Day of Pentecost, when tongues of fire descended on the apostles, to countless healings and divine interventions recorded in the Book of Acts, the first believers lived in a reality where heaven touched earth. Their faith was more than a doctrine it was a demonstration of God’s living presence.

These encounters were not hidden or reserved for private revelations. They occurred in the streets, in public squares, and in prison cells. Peter’s shadow healing the sick, Paul’s handkerchiefs bringing deliverance, and an earthquake shaking open the doors of a jail were not isolated incidents. They were part of a wave of divine power that followed those who dared to believe in the risen Christ and surrender their lives to His cause.

Healing, Deliverance, and the Expansion of the Gospel

Healing played a central role in the expansion of the gospel. The early Church did not separate spiritual teaching from physical transformation. The same Jesus who forgave sins also opened blind eyes and raised the dead and His followers carried that same authority. As the apostles traveled from city to city, their ministry of healing served as proof that their message came from a higher power.

Miracles of deliverance were equally significant. Demonic oppression was openly confronted by the early believers, and their authority in Christ was evident when the possessed were set free. Acts 16 tells the story of Paul commanding a spirit to leave a fortune-telling slave girl. Which not only delivered her but also caused an uproar that led to his imprisonment. Such power disrupted systems and proved that the gospel was more than comforting words it was confrontational, revolutionary, and Holy Encounters.

These acts of healing and deliverance drew crowds and opened doors for the gospel to be preached. The supernatural was not a marketing tool; it was a spiritual necessity. In a world filled with fear, illness, and darkness, the light of the gospel needed to shine tangibly. For the first believers, the power of God was not optional it was their foundation, and it fueled the rapid growth of Christianity across nations and cultures.

Visions, Dreams, and Angelic Visitations

Beyond physical miracles, the early Church was rich in divine communication. Visions and dreams were frequent methods through which God directed and encouraged His people. Peter’s vision on the rooftop, where he was shown that the gospel was for Gentiles as well as Jews, redefined the Church’s mission. Paul’s dream of a Macedonian man pleading for help led him to Europe, opening new territories to the message of Christ.

These encounters were deeply personal, yet they had global implications. Each vision or dream carried guidance that influenced major decisions within the Church. Unlike random spiritual experiences, they were purposeful, strategic, and aligned with God’s unfolding plan for His people. The believers did not dismiss supernatural guidance as irrelevant or strange they embraced it as a natural part of walking with the Holy Spirit.

In addition to dreams and visions, angelic visitations were recorded as life-saving and mission-defining moments. When Peter was imprisoned and facing execution, an angel appeared and led him out past guards and locked gates. This miraculous escape not only preserved his life but strengthened the resolve of the Church. Such divine interventions were testimonies that no earthly power could stop what God had set in motion.

The Role of Unity and Boldness in Unlocking the Miraculous

One of the overlooked elements of the supernatural legacy of the early Church is the role that unity played. The believers were of one heart and mind, constantly meeting for prayer, worship, and fellowship. This environment of spiritual togetherness created a fertile ground for miracles. When people are united in purpose and expectation, the atmosphere shifts and God’s presence becomes tangible.

Boldness was another key. The apostles did not hold back when faced with opposition. After being threatened and arrested, they prayed not for safety, but for greater boldness to preach and to heal. Acts 4 records that after their prayer. The place where they were gathered was shaken, and they were filled again with the Holy Encounters. That moment of corporate empowerment unleashed even more signs and wonders among the people.

The supernatural legacy they left behind was not reserved for the elite or the chosen few. It was birthed in community, sustained by unity, and ignited by courage. These holy encounters were not interruptions to the gospel they were the gospel in action. They revealed a God who was alive, active, and intimately involved in the lives of His people.

How the Legacy Continues: Modern Reflections on Ancient Power

Rather than closing with a traditional conclusion, it’s worth exploring how the legacy of these supernatural encounters continues today. Around the world, believers still report healings, visions, and miraculous deliverances reminiscent of those in the Book of Acts. In underground churches, prayer meetings, mission fields, and even digital spaces, the Spirit of God still moves with power.

This modern continuation often occurs outside the spotlight. Quiet testimonies of blind eyes opened or tumors disappearing are shared within communities of faith that still believe what the early Church believed that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The supernatural is not extinct; it simply requires faith and surrender to flourish once more.

As new generations seek a living faith, the stories of the first believers remain more than ancient history they are blueprints. The same Holy Spirit who empowered fishermen and tax collectors to change the world is still at work today, waiting for hearts that are willing, united, and bold enough to welcome the miraculous into the everyday.

Echoes of Faith: Ancient Churches That Witnessed Centuries of Worship and War

Ancient Churches & Sites

Thorn Ville Church – Across continents and cultures, scattered among hills, valleys, and once-flourishing empires, stand the ancient churches that have defied time. These sacred structures are more than mere places of worship. They are living witnesses to centuries of devotion, upheaval, conquest, and resilience. Their stones bear the scars of history, and their walls have heard the chants of saints and the Echoes of Faith.

This journey through some of the world’s oldest churches is a window into how faith endured in the face of war. How architecture became testimony, and how these sacred places continue to inspire awe long after the empires around them have faded.

Hagia Sophia – Istanbul, Turkey

Originally constructed in 537 AD under the rule of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. The Hagia Sophia is perhaps the most iconic example of how sacred architecture reflects shifting powers. First a cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum-turned-mosque again, Hagia Sophia has changed with the tides of empire, yet remains a symbol of spiritual grandeur.

Its immense dome, rich mosaics, and marble columns draw millions of visitors yearly. Though originally built as a Christian basilica, it later housed Islamic calligraphy after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The building’s dual religious identity encapsulates the complex history of faith and conquest in the region.

Church of the Nativity – Bethlehem, West Bank

Regarded as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, the Church of the Nativity was first commissioned by Constantine the Great in 327 AD. Despite invasions, earthquakes, and multiple reconstructions, the church still retains parts of its original floor mosaic and basilica structure.

Through the Crusades and centuries of political unrest in the Middle East. This ancient church has stood firm as both a symbol of Christianity and a flashpoint in religious and political tension. It is one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world. Testament to unwavering reverence amidst war and turmoil.

Monastery of Saint Anthony – Eastern Desert, Egypt

Deep in Egypt’s arid wilderness lies the Monastery of Saint Anthony, established in the 4th century AD. As one of the oldest Christian monasteries in existence, it has been a sanctuary for monks and pilgrims for over 1,600 years.

This monastery survived the Roman persecutions, Bedouin raids, and isolation. Its thick defensive walls and remote location helped it withstand centuries of threat. The monastery reflects not just the power of devotion. But also the lengths to which early Christians would go to preserve their faith in seclusion and serenity.

Etchmiadzin Cathedral – Vagharshapat, Armenia

Often considered the first cathedral in the world. Etchmiadzin was founded in 301 AD, the same year Armenia became the first nation to adopt Christianity as a state religion. This cathedral remains the spiritual center of the Armenian Apostolic Church.

Through Mongol invasions, earthquakes, and political transitions. Etchmiadzin has continued to operate and serve as a religious hub for Armenians worldwide. It symbolizes how a church can anchor a national and spiritual identity even through centuries of displacement and Echoes of Faith.

Basilica of San Vitale – Ravenna, Italy

Built in the 6th century, the Basilica of San Vitale is a marvel of Byzantine art and architecture in Western Europe. Its mosaics are among the most well-preserved in the world, featuring dazzling images of emperors, saints, and biblical scenes.

Located in a city that once stood at the crossroads of empire, the basilica was caught between Gothic and Byzantine power struggles. Yet it remained untouched, serving as a beacon of religious art and stability in a time of political chaos.

A Reflection on Preservation and Pilgrimage in the Modern World

Rather than ending with a traditional conclusion, let us explore what these churches mean today and what lies ahead.

As tourism surges and technology advances, the way we engage with ancient churches is evolving. From 3D reconstructions to virtual pilgrimages, people around the world now have access to sacred spaces once only reachable by foot, horseback, or sailing vessel.

More importantly, global efforts are increasing to preserve and protect ancient religious sites. Not only for their architectural beauty but also for the spiritual legacy they carry. UNESCO World Heritage designations, restoration campaigns, and interfaith collaborations have all contributed to ensuring these monuments outlast modern threats. Including climate change, conflict, and urban expansion.

At the same time, pilgrimage has not lost its power. People still travel long distances on foot, by bike, by air to light a candle where millions have done so before them. The echoes of faith still resonate. Not only in the stones and frescoes, but in the hearts of those who enter with reverence.

Daily Encouragement from the Psalms: A Verse to Start Your Morning Right

Daily Bible Verse

Thorn Ville Church – Mornings can shape the rest of our day. Whether we rise to calm or chaos, how we begin the day often sets the tone for everything that follows. In the midst of our routines, demands, and distractions, taking a few moments to anchor ourselves in daily encouragement can provide the clarity and peace our souls desperately need. And few parts of the Bible speak to the heart more personally and poetically than the Book of Psalms.

With its raw honesty, emotional depth, and powerful expressions of both pain and praise, the Psalms have been a spiritual refuge for generations. They speak to the human experience in all its complexity and they offer encouragement like no other. This is why turning to the Psalms each morning can be more than a habit; it can be a lifeline for faith, hope, and peace.

A Verse to Reflect On: Psalm 143:8

Let’s begin with a verse that encapsulates morning surrender and divine trust:

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life.”
— Psalm 143:8 (NIV)

This verse is a perfect morning prayer. It begins by asking for a fresh reminder of God’s love His “unfailing” love. Not just a feeling, but a steady, reliable, and personal love that remains even when life feels uncertain.

Then it shifts into a request for direction and guidance. The psalmist acknowledges that without God’s leading, we’re likely to walk paths that lead to confusion or frustration. Trusting God with our day begins by inviting Him to lead it.

And finally, there is a bold declaration: “To you I entrust my life.” What a powerful way to start the day with surrender, not striving.

Why the Psalms Still Speak to Us

The Psalms are often described as the “heart of the Bible” for good reason. They give voice to our fears, joy, anger, gratitude, and longing in ways that feel deeply personal. Whether written in times of victory or despair, the psalms remind us that God invites us to bring daily encouragement to Him.

Unlike many other biblical texts, the Psalms don’t always have neat, resolved endings. Sometimes they end in praise, sometimes in pleading. But they always lead us to honesty before God and that kind of honesty is exactly what our mornings need.

From Psalm 23’s quiet assurance that “The Lord is my shepherd,” to Psalm 46’s bold call to “Be still and know,” the Psalms act as spiritual mirrors. They remind us that God is not only listening He is present, involved, and faithful.

Morning Psalms to Meditate On

If you’re new to the practice of reading the Psalms in the morning, here are a few more powerful verses to start with:

Psalm 5:3 – “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”
Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
Psalm 90:14 – “Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.”

Each of these passages holds a different kind of encouragement whether it’s trust, joy, patience, or hope. The key is not how much you read, but how deeply you let the verse speak to your heart.

From Reading to Living: Creating a Morning Psalm Routine

Instead of closing with a traditional conclusion, let’s focus on a new habit you can build—a daily morning practice using the Psalms.

Here’s how you can begin:

Choose one Psalm each week.
Start your day by reading a single verse or a short passage from that Psalm every morning. Let the words become familiar, and allow new meanings to unfold as the week progresses.
Journal a short reflection.
Write down how the verse applies to your current situation. What is God saying to you today through this text?
Pray the verse back to God.
Turn the Scripture into a conversation. For example, with Psalm 143:8, you could pray:
“Lord, thank You for your unfailing love. I trust You today. Please guide me and show me the way I should go.”
Carry it with you.
Write the verse on a notecard or save it on your phone lock screen. Let it return to your thoughts throughout the day especially when things get difficult or distracting.

Over time, this simple rhythm can deepen your faith, calm your heart, and strengthen your walk with God. The Psalms weren’t just written for ancient worship they’re designed to breathe life into our mornings daily encouragement today.

The Good Samaritan: A Story That Redefines What It Means to Love Your Neighbor

Bible Stories

Thorn Ville Church – In a world increasingly shaped by divisions be they cultural, political, or economic—the parable of The Good Samaritan remains one of the most powerful and challenging teachings ever told. Found in Luke 10:25–37, this brief yet deeply impactful story from Jesus redefines not only who our “neighbor” is but also how we are call to respond to the suffering of others, regardless of background, belief, or boundary.

Told in response to a question from a legal expert “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus’ parable was not merely an answer, but a radical reframing of how love should be express in real, practical, and self-sacrificial ways.

The Story: A Simple Narrative with Deep Implications

In the parable, Jesus tells of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who is attacked by robbers, stripped, beaten, and left half-dead by the roadside. A priest and then a Levite both religious figures pass by the man but choose not to help. It is only a Samaritan, a person culturally despised by Jews at the time, who stops, tends to the man’s wounds, places him on his own donkey, and ensures his continued care at an inn.

This act of kindness, shown not by someone expected to be compassionate, but by someone considered an outsider even an enemy was meant to turn the question “Who is my neighbor?” into “To whom can I be a neighbor?”

Jesus finishes the parable by asking, “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The legal expert replies, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus simply says, “Go and do likewise.”

Love Without Borders: The Samaritan’s Unexpected Compassion

The Samaritan’s action is revolutionary not only because he stops to help but because he overcomes social and historical hostility to do so. In Jesus’ time, Jews and Samaritans had a long history of religious and ethnic tension. The man in the story would likely have never expected help from a Samaritan, and the Samaritan would have had every reason, culturally, to walk away.

But this is precisely Jesus’ point: true love transcends tribalism. It is not bound by religious affiliation, ethnicity, or social standing. The Samaritan demonstrates what it means to live out agape love a love that is active, generous, and rooted in mercy.

Practical Compassion: What It Means Today

In today’s context, the message of the Good Samaritan remains startlingly relevant. We may not pass by injured travelers on desert roads, but we do encounter those in need physically, emotionally, spiritually almost daily. Whether it’s a homeless person, an overwhelmed single parent, a hurting friend, or even someone who thinks, believes, or votes differently than we do, we are constantly faced with opportunities to choose empathy over apathy.

To “go and do likewise” might mean stepping out of comfort zones, questioning long-held prejudices, or giving time and resources to someone we may have ignored in the past. It could mean offering a listening ear to someone from a marginalized group, defending the mistreated, or simply showing up when others walk away.

Loving our neighbor, according to Jesus, is not about identifying who qualifies for our love but about becoming someone who chooses to love no matter what.

A New Lens: Mercy as a Lifestyle, Not a Moment

Rather than ending this reflection with a simple summary, let’s explore an important takeaway: the Samaritan’s compassion wasn’t a one-time act of heroism it was a reflection of character. What made his actions so profound was that he didn’t just “feel sorry” for the injured man he took responsibility.

This shift from pity to mercy, from emotion to action is what separates passive kindness from transformational love. Mercy requires us to move. It requires intentionality, generosity, and sometimes sacrifice. And when it becomes a lifestyle, it changes not only the person receiving the kindness but the one offering it as well.

As we look at the story through this lens, we begin to see that being a Good Samaritan isn’t about grand gestures it’s about daily decisions. It’s about choosing compassion when it’s inconvenient, costly, or even misunderstood. It’s about becoming people whose instinct is to stop, notice, and care.

Imagine a world where more of us lived this way where mercy wasn’t a rare exception but a regular expectation. That is the invitation Jesus offers: not simply to admire the Good Samaritan, but to become one.