Scripture:
42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.
Observation:
In this Chapter of Matthew we read three parables that all have similar themes. On a high level, the first parable of the virgins teaches us we need to be ready. The second parable, The Parable of the Talents, teaches us we need to use the gifts God has given us. The third parable is a picture of the final judgement. This story teaches us that we are to love one another and take care of those in need.
Application:
In this story of the final judgment Jesus teaches us that God loves everyone but He is particularly concerned with how we love and show care for others. Jesus is instructing us that if we call ourselves Christians we are expected to live a particular way an act a specific. If we say we love one another, then our actions should reflect that view.
God loves everyone, I should love everyone. God is concerned with believer’s immediate needs. I should be ready to act.
Read again God’s description of the less fortunate believers who have immediate needs. They are hungry, thirsty, have no clothes, sick and imprisoned. They all have immediate life concerning needs. This is a description of poor and less powerful people in a society. God’s concerns is for everyone. I cannot just concern myself with taking care of my needs, my family’s needs and the needs of my friends around me. I must be concerned with needs of others and show my love by my actions.
During a time of the year that the nation shows it is thankful for its abundance, it is easy to throw an extra bit of money to a charity to help those who are less fortunate. But, let me not forget those who are in genuine need not just now but throughout the year. Let my actions match my words and let those actions be a reflection of your light.
Prayer:
Father, it is easy to be grateful when you are blessed. It is difficult to be grateful when things are not going well. Let me always be grateful for everything you have done for me and let that gratefulness overflow to others. Help me to remember that there are true needs in our community and let me have my head up and eyes and ears open to be able to see where I can assist at all times.