One day, traveling on this road, the businessman saw a man lying on the side of the road. He was stripped, badly beaten, and left for dead. Others had passed by on the other side of the road, not wanting to get involved. As the businessman came closer to the wounded man, he saw he was still alive. The businessman felt compassion for him. He stopped and bandaged his wounds to the best of his ability. Then he journeyed with the wounded man to the nearest place where he could receive care. He paid upfront for immediate expenses for the man’s recovery out of his own pocket, promising to return after his business to check on the man and to pay any additional expenses incurred. The story of this businessman has become world-famous. He is remembered not for his name, or even for his business, but for his character. Maybe you have heard of him? He is known as the “Good Samaritan”.
The story of the “Good Samaritan” has been told for centuries around the world. It transcends nations, race, and socioeconomic status. It continues to this day to be one of the most recognized stories by children and adults alike, standing as an example of success in business and in life. You can find this story in the Bible, where Jesus tells it as a key response to the legal and religious experts of the day. They were looking for a loophole to success. Jesus gets to the heart of the matter by responding to them with the story of the Good Samaritan. Jesus tells this story as a parable, using everyday experiences to illustrate moral and spiritual truth. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words! And what a picture He gives.
"But a Samaritan, who was on a journey, came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion."
Luke 10:33 NASB
Luke 10:33 NASB
This story holds key principles for success as leaders. In my own work with clients, businesses, and organizations, I have seen these principles applied with measurable growth and transformation. I have seen individuals overcome incredible life challenges with great success, and work cultures transformed to a high level of productivity, standing out in their industries as leaders and building strong communities in the process.
In the journey of life, work is only part of your journey. What you do at work, what is accomplished, will primarily stay there. But who you are, the lessons you learn, the character you develop, and the people you impact goes with you. If you are a young leader still building your career, take the opportunity to learn and grow. Invest in relationships. The seeds you plant in relationships will bear good fruit over time. Stay with them. If you are a seasoned leader, you have a wealth of wisdom and life experience. Look around for someone to invest in. What better legacy to leave than to invest in the people of your industry or community?
Put your heart into your work, serving others generously, communicating compassionately, strengthening your own character, and building up others. You, and your work, will be blessed!
Excerpt by @Dana Grindal from When Work Works.
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