Who Do We Give To?

³⁵ For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, ³⁶ I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ ³⁷ Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? ³⁸ And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? ³⁹ And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ ⁴⁰ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ – Matthew 25:35-40

This is to be at the heart of our personal and Church wide mission. While much of the Bible can be discussed, debated, and dissected, these words from Jesus are surprisingly clear. The way we treat others, has a direct connection to how we see God. Followers are to have a creatively kinetic faith. They are to see that a drink is not simply a drink and a jacket is not simply a jacket. These mundane props are instruments of grace in a world greatly lacking in both grace and care. Many times we do not practice this kind of faith because we do not see the true need. Either we are too isolated in our current mode of life, or we have trouble seeing the need in others. Whatever it may be, pray to the author of creation for creative ways to love others.

Such movement is never opposed by God. Our Lord will never accuse us of giving too much or not being discerning enough when opening our kindness to others. No, He still blesses those that attempt to bless others, regardless if they “deserve” it. For if the object of charity deserved it, none of us would receive grace. Be careful of mindsets that hold back or attempt to disqualify such acts. Jesus was plainly clear to give of yourself without borders.

Today, see your mindset and actions as directly connected to Christ. The way you treat others – especially those you don’t care for – has a direct connection to the Kingdom of God.

Be kind.