"But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’" – Luke 10:33-35
 
Most of us are familiar with the story Jesus told of the Good Samaritan, but a character who is often overlooked is the innkeeper. The healing and recovery of the man attacked by robbers wouldn't have been possible without the innkeeper. The Samaritan entrusted the care of the injured man to him. The innkeeper showed the man hospitality.

When I think of all the varied services of Buckner around Texas and around the world, I think of this story. We offer hospitality to those that are hurting, vulnerable, broken and in need of healing and rest.

Within our Buckner senior living communities, this is especially true as our associates offer hospitality and inspire happiness to seniors daily. For those serving vulnerable children and families, you have the opportunity to be a safe place for healing and hope. 

According to the story Jesus told, this practical expression of care and compassion is how we love our neighbor and how we join with him in expressing his grace and goodness to the world.

No matter your role or level of responsibility, what a privilege we all have every day to be an innkeeper to those around us!

Written by Michael Olmstead, vice president and chief operating officer for Buckner Retirement Services.

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