The parable of the good Samaritan has profound lessons applicable in our life today.

In short, the story is about how a man helps take care of a complete stranger in need.

Thankfully, we are fortunate to have selfless citizens here in southwest Michigan who are willing to put their own safety at risk to help others.

Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker and I recently paid tribute to two local good Samaritans who stepped forward to help a stranger under attack earlier this year.

Without regard for their own safety, Jerry Burnham, of Berrien Springs, and Keith Pepple, of Plainwell, came to the aid of Michigan State Police Trooper Garry Guild on Feb. 20. As a result of their bravery, the attackers were apprehended and, more importantly, no one was injured.

Trooper Guild’s pursuit of a fleeing motorcyclist resulted in two men attacking the officer on the side of a road. Upon witnessing the altercation, Burnham and Pepple stopped their vehicles and came to the aid of Trooper Guild. They stopped one assailant from choking the trooper and held back the other until the trooper could gain control of the suspects and place them under arrest.

In May, the motorcyclist was found guilty on six counts, including assault with intent to do great bodily harm and was sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Our law enforcement officials put their lives on the line every day to protect our families and communities. It was an honor to pay tribute to these gentlemen who reciprocated that generosity.

We presented Burnham and Pepple with special tributes recognizing their courage in risking their lives to aid a state trooper being attacked on the side of a highway. They probably saved the officer’s life and surely exemplified the message of the good Samaritan parable: that being a good neighbor means being a blessing to others.

We will be forever grateful for the actions of Burnham and Pepple and for all the good Samaritans who step forward each day to make a difference in our communities.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.