Encourage Deeper Understanding of Scripture

11-26-2017Weekly Reflection

“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.” Todaywe celebrate the feast of an unusual kind of king. Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe,does not run his kingdom in the standard fashion. Instead of insisting upon the pomp and circumstance that usually surrounds earthly royalty, Jesus has a different focus. He thinks not ofhimself, but of those he loves. And in today’s Gospel, his interest is especially focused on the poorand suffering in our midst.

Our King asks us to care for those in need—the hungry, the homeless, the foreigner, the sick andsuffering. But then, he goes farther; he tells us that in caring for these least brethren, we will beministering to him! What an incredible promise. Not only do we carry out the command to love ourneighbor when we protect those in need, but we also show our love for Jesus in a direct and concrete way. This love for Christ through others is so real that Jesus actually tells us that ourplace on Judgment Day will depend on it: “‘What you did not do for one of these least ones, youdid not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment.” On the other hand, the “righteous”who ministered to the weak and poor will enjoy eternal life. Our King has spoken loud and clear.Now comes the question of whether or not we are obeying his orders?

Each of us is called to examine how well we are caring for the least among us. Sometimes, thismeans giving our time and energy for special ministries or missions, but often it means caring forthose right in front of us—the sick or suffering in our own homes, families, neighborhoods, or parishes. Whatever our situation, may we have the eyes to see Christ in our midst and serve him.

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