In times of difficulty, many people turn to reflection to better understand how to respond—with compassion, with clarity, and with purpose.
For our family, the story of the Good Samaritan has been one of those moments of reflection.
“When people need our help like the man on the road, it is when our love for our neighbor is truly tested.”
– Quote from Christian website
Questions for Self-Reflection
1. When Jesus asked the lawyer who his neighbor was, what was the answer?
The lawyer answered correctly: the one who showed mercy.
“He has shown you, O man, what is good: to act justly and to love mercy…”
— Micah 6:8
2. What is the biblical definition of mercy?
- Mercy is often understood as deliverance from judgment
- Mercy is compassion in action, working to relieve suffering
- Mercy is not just a feeling, but an active response to human need
Key Questions Asked of Jesus
- What shall I do to have eternal life?
- Who is my neighbor?
Why This Reflection Matters
The message of the Good Samaritan reminds us that compassion is not passive. It requires awareness, empathy, and action.
There are moments in life when we are all faced with the question of how we respond to the needs of others.
For our family, this reflection is part of how we continue to process the situation we are facing, and how we think about compassion, mercy, and support during difficult times.
Christlike Characteristics of the Good Samaritan
(Adapted from a message by Charles Stanley)
The reflection below is inspired by teachings on the Good Samaritan, including the message shared here:
He opened his eyes
Although all three men saw the injured man, only the Samaritan stopped to help.
He opened his heart
Where others looked and passed by, the Samaritan responded with compassion. He saw suffering and chose to act.
He opened his hands
He did more than feel sympathy. He cared for the man’s wounds, lifted him up, and ensured he was taken somewhere safe.
He opened his purse
He continued his journey, but not before making sure the man would be cared for. He covered the cost and took responsibility for his recovery.
“Listen carefully—when your heart can’t break, you’re in trouble,” says Dr. Stanley.
A Broader Reflection
The story of the Good Samaritan reflects a genuine example of compassion in action.
Opportunities to show that same compassion still exist today. But they require us to see the need, feel empathy, and be willing to give our time and resources to help others.
As we reflect on this, we are reminded that compassion is ultimately a matter of the heart.
Where are our hearts? Where is our compassion?
A Personal Note from Our Family
As Paul’s parents, we believe deeply that mercy matters.
Paul has now spent more than five years in custody. He has completed his federal sentence, paid full restitution, and lost his career, reputation, and the life he built over decades.
We ask a simple question: has enough been served?
Our goal is to see Paul return home to his family by February 2027.
To move forward, there are two key areas of focus:
- Continued legal and advocacy efforts, including preparation for a potential commutation
- Ongoing awareness and support from those who are willing to stay informed and, when appropriate, help bring attention to Paul’s situation
At this point, we are asking for thoughtful consideration of what comes next—and whether continued incarceration serves a meaningful purpose.
We need your help. We are asking for two things:
Step 1: Join Us
Please sign up for our email list. We will keep you informed with updates and let you know when there are meaningful ways to take action.
Step 2: Support the Effort
If you are able, please consider making a donation. Contributions help support ongoing legal and advocacy efforts as we continue working toward the next steps.
Paul has always cared deeply about his family and the people he served. We continue to pray for fairness and compassion as this process moves forward.