For young readers: A good Samaritan helps a man from an ‘enemy’ community in distress

The road from Jerusalem to Jericho in ancient Judea twisted like a long, stubborn snake between cliffs and dusty hills. There were hardly any trees; just dry bushes that looked like they’d given up on their dreams years ago. Even the wind felt tired there.

But every day, many people used that road – farmers, merchants, shepherds, even the occasional storytellers. And on this particular day, one lone traveller stepped onto that road hoping to reach Jericho before sunset.

He checked his sandals twice to make sure they wouldn’t give him blisters. He carried a cloak, a small bag of food, and a water bottle that he had already sipped from twice before he’d walked even ten steps. It was a hot morning.

He hummed as he walked, a cheerful tune, mostly to keep his courage up. Everyone knew this road had robbers.

His friends had told him, “Travel with others.” But he said, “I’ll be fine.” because he was in a hurry.

He was halfway down a narrow stretch when he heard something – a rustle of stones behind him. He turned, but too late! Hands grabbed him. A whole gang of men leapt out from behind the rocks.

“Oh no!” he exclaimed. “My friends had...

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