It was not enough that the stranger be left alone, neither annoyed nor molested. They were to treat him with the same consideration they manifested toward one another. Christ enunciated this same standard while on earth. In fact, He quoted directly from this chapter of Leviticus when He said, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” (Matt. 22:39; Lev. 19:18). Lest some might conclude that by “neighbor” Christ meant a Jew, He spoke the parable of the good Samaritan. Any man in need, be he Jew or Samaritan, friend or stranger, is our neighbor (Luke 10:30-37).

It is well for us to remember that there may have been times in the past when we were among strangers and needed a helping hand or an encouraging word. This should make us more kind to those who need our help and encouragement.