Discipleship - Service

And the King will answer them, ‘Don’t you know? When you cared for one of the least important of these my little ones, my true brothers and sisters, you demonstrated love for me.’ Matthew 25:40 

This dramatic verse calls us to conversion to our sisters and brothers who are in need. It calls us with Jesus to look at our lives. The question remains, “Do we put ourselves out for others and share what we can?” We may also ponder. “Do we listen to how he may be prompting our poor hearts to greater compassion and sharing.

Our behaviours rather than our beliefs reveal whether we are  Kingdom people. Our treatment of others is the criterion by which we ourselves will be treated.

Years ago, the Salvation Army was holding an international convention and their founder, Gen. William Booth, could not attend because of physical weakness. He telegrammed his convention message to them. It was one word: "OTHERS."

St Ignatius says ’Love manifests itself in deeds more than words.’ St John of the Cross tells us: ‘In the evening of life, we will be examined in love.’ Lord, you call me to recognise you in all those who are in need. May my response be one of concrete and loving service. Amen

May we honour your name

not by paying it lip service, Lord Jesus

but by trusting the vision it speaks of

and the way it calls for

May we honour it by following you

speaking into the word with our actions

and showing who we’re chosen to follow

May we love in your name

speak in your name

care in your name

that willingness to touch the outcast

feed the hungry

remember the sick

visit the imprisoned

clothe the naked

give water to the thirsty

in your name. Amen