What we do for the least of people, we do for Jesus Himself.
“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”Matthew 25:40 (KJV)
What does “Least of these” mean in Matthew 25:40?
In this parable of the final judgment, the King identifies Himself with the hungry, the stranger, the sick, and the imprisoned. His answer to those who are surprised is that whatever they did for the least of these, they did for Him.
Going deeper
The people in the story are surprised. When did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or sick, or in prison? The King answers, verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Jesus says that He is present in those who are overlooked. Every act of care for a person in need is care for Him.
This changes how we look at ordinary encounters. The person asking for help, the neighbor in need, the patient in a hospital bed, each is a place where Christ comes to us. It does not mean we ignore wisdom or safety, but it does mean we look with different eyes. Ask God to show you one person this week who is easy to overlook. Give them your time, your attention, or your help, and know that you are serving Jesus.
Reflect
Who is easy for you to overlook, and how could you serve them as if serving Jesus?
Pray
Lord Jesus, open my eyes to see You in the people who are overlooked. Help me to serve them with love. In Jesus' name, amen.
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