Providing for Others

Scripture

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"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me... Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:35-36, 40)

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Observation

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These verses in Matthew, albeit long, are some of the most practical applications of Jesus' teachings. He provided six aspects of life that people are in need of: food, drink, shelter, clothes, medical care, companionship. His disciples were called to aid others in these practical ways, as if doing them for Jesus himself. Jesus made many teachings in his time on earth, ones such as the Great Commission, but rarely was he so clear and precise on how exactly we should meet the needs of those around us. These six aspects encompass so well the needs all of us have and how we may practically help others.

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Application

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Jesus calls us to heal and love the needy. These six ways are some of the clearest examples one can use in our daily lives - giving food, water, shelter, clothing, care and support. I, as his disciple, am called to do these, and more. If we say we love Jesus, we express it by loving others, as He identifies himself with those in need. We love God by loving others and those in need.

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Prayer

 

Lord, open my eyes to the world around me. Help me slow down to see the suffering and needs of this broken world, that I too, may remember to give whenever and however I best can. Amen.