“The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.'” – Matthew 25:34-46
There are many reasons to help people in need. Compassion has many advocates, but for the Christian, none is higher than this: when we love those in need, we are loving Jesus. The works of mercy are simple deeds. And yet in these simple deeds we serve Jesus. While Jesus wants us to be compassionate and caring to all people, this passage is primarily about how we treat those the world seems to think are the least but whom Jesus calls and values as His disciples. Jesus’ promise is that as we care for our brothers and sisters in Christ, no matter their circumstance, we are caring for Him. As we serve others, it is Christ in us that works to accomplish His purpose in their lives. It really is simple: love God and love people.
Who are some of the “least of the these” that you are presently serving? If there is no one in your life that you are currently helping, ask God to open your eyes to see those in need.
