July 20

Ministering To Christ

And the King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’ — Matt 25:40 BSB

How incredible it is that our Lord identifies Himself with the hungry, the thirsty, the weary, the homeless, the outcast, and the suffering! If you are in any of these conditions, take great comfort, for Jesus knows what it is like, having suffered the same in His earthly life. His sympathy and understanding are boundless, and He receives any kindness shown to others as if it were done to Him.

We must be vigilant, always looking for opportunities to help others, recognizing that every outstretched hand or request for aid is His. But we must also be cautious, ensuring that we help people wisely. Giving to every beggar may, in fact, harm them by encouraging laziness or irresponsibility. True help goes beyond offering money, food, or clothing—it requires personal involvement and care, which may cost us more in effort and time.

Jesus calls those who show kindness to others “righteous,” for it is only those who are right with God who can truly be merciful to others. Righteousness and mercy are inseparable.

Beware of the sin of omission! Notice that those cast out from the presence of the King were judged not for what they did, but for what they failed to do. We may be condemned not just for our sins, but for neglecting to do what is right—for passing by those in need, for failing to be ready with oil in our lamps, or for burying the talents we’ve been entrusted with. These omissions degrade our souls to the level of those who rebel against God.

Let us ask the Holy Spirit for the grace to follow in the steps of Jesus, who went about doing good and healing those in need. Jesus has transferred the debt we owe Him to the poor and needy, and He says that whatever we do for them, He will receive as payment to Himself.

Prayer

O God, we have been too focused on ourselves. We have forgotten that our best and happiest life is lived in fellowship with the needs and sorrows of others. Help us to lift their burdens with our love, to encourage them with our hope, and to bear their troubles as best we can. Amen.