How can we recognize and serve Jesus in others, as Matthew 25:37 suggests? Setting the Scene: Matthew 25:37 in Context Matthew 25:37: “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink?’” • Jesus is describing the final judgment, separating “sheep” from “goats” (Matthew 25:31-46). • He treats acts of mercy toward the needy as literal service rendered to Himself, underscoring the reliability and truthfulness of His words. Seeing Jesus in the “Least of These” • Jesus personally identifies with the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and imprisoned (Matthew 25:40). • Serving people in these conditions is not symbolic charity; it is ministering to Christ Himself. • This truth calls for eyes of faith that look beyond appearances and recognize His presence in everyday encounters. How to Recognize Opportunities • Stay alert to needs in your own household, church family, workplace, and neighborhood (Galatians 6:10). • Listen for the Spirit’s prompting when you overhear a practical need. • Notice the overlooked—the elderly shut-in, the single parent, the refugee, the ex-offender starting over. • Keep margin in your schedule and budget so interruptions can become ministry moments. • Use community connections: food banks, prison ministries, hospital visits, foster-care support, and homeless outreach. Practical Ways to Serve Jesus Through Others • Feed the hungry: Share meals, stock the church pantry, support local shelters (James 2:15-17). • Quench thirst: Provide clean water projects abroad; locally, offer bottled water during heat waves. • Welcome the stranger: Practice hospitality, open your home for a meal, greet newcomers at church (Hebrews 13:2). • Clothe the naked: Organize clothing drives, supply winter coats, or sponsor school uniforms (Proverbs 19:17). • Visit the sick: Hospital calls, meals for families, ride services to medical appointments (1 John 3:17-18). • Remember prisoners: Write letters, volunteer with jail chaplaincy, help families affected by incarceration (Hebrews 13:3). Guarding Our Motives • Serve from love, not for applause (Matthew 6:1-4). • Do everything “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). • Let compassion flow from gratitude for Christ’s mercy toward you (Ephesians 2:4-5). • Trust God for results and reward; obedience is your part. The Promise and Reward • “Come, you who are blessed by My Father; inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34). • God sees every cup of cold water given in His name (Matthew 10:42). • Loving service stores up treasure in heaven and bears witness to genuine faith (James 2:26). Key Scriptures for Further Reflection |
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