In Matthew 25:40, Jesus is speaking a parable about the Judgment Day. In it, those who helped the hungry, naked, and imprisoned were welcomed into the Kingdom because kindness shown to others is kindness shown to Christ. Like some of you, I have heard this parable preached a number of times. One day, the Holy Spirit used this verse to challenge me but in a completely unexpected way.
There were people in my life that I treated differently than others: I was not as excited to answer their phone calls and would not go the extra mile for them. In my heart, I had made them a “least of these” class. They had not done anything to offend or hurt me. These were people who I deemed it more challenging to be in a relationship with them. They were a little rough around the edges or I did not have as much fun when I was with them.
You may be thinking that the Bible is clearly referring to the hungry, naked, and imprisoned. While we are called to serve others, when Jesus came He also exposed the conditions of man’s heart. On that day, my heart was exposed. My heart was not right towards others. In fact, those who I treated better, it was because of what they did for me (in acceptance, laughs, etc.). I had a respect of persons that had nothing to do with wealth, education, or appearance. My treatment of others was self-serving. While I gravitated to those who accepted me, there were people who needed my acceptance.
I was immediately convicted and repented of my sin. As I began to love my “least of these”, my heart towards them changed. I have experienced a stronger connection with them, enjoy our conversations, and time together. Is there someone in your life whom you treat as a “least of these” (a co-worker, church member, relative, neighbor, etc.)?
Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ (Matthew 25:45)
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Copyright 2019 T.L. Lockley. All rights reserved.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
I believe that we all have experienced placing people on a “list” and I agree that we may do it according to how the person makes you feel about yourself. The first step to this behavior is to acknowledge that you are doing this and then, with God guidance, correct it starting with your heart and recognizing what they may unknowingly need from you to bring them closer to God. We in Christ can’t be so quick to dismiss. Thanks TL for the insight.