" Thus each parable emphasizes a vital aspect of Christian discipleship—its beginning when like the prodigal son we come home for salvation, and its continuing when like the good Samaritan we go out in mission. Each of us resembles the prodigal; each of us should resemble the Samaritan. First we face our own sins, and then we face the world’s sufferings. First we come in and receive mercy, and then we go out and show mercy. Mercy cannot be shown until it has been received; but once it has been received it must be shown to others. Let us not divorce what Christ has married. We have all been prodigals; God wants us all to be Samaritans too.13 "

― Tim Chester , Stott on the Christian Life: Between Two Worlds