Meditation

Read Matthew 25:34-40

The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

—Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

As I left a restaurant one night, I saw a man silhouetted in the dim glow of a street light. He had scruffy hair, wore ill-fitting clothing and was carrying some plastic bags. Nervous, I tried to avoid eye contact as I walked by. Just passed him, the man pointed to the carry-out box I had brought with me from the restaurant and asked, “Ma’am, are you going to eat that?” I paused and handed him the box, saying, “Please take it.” I continued on to my car, surprised at what had happened. When I looked back, I saw the man already eating my dinner leftovers.

That night I made a silent promise that I would never again close my heart to someone I saw on the street, even if all I had to give was a kind word or leftovers from a meal. I cannot save everyone in the world from hunger, but God isn’t asking me to do that. God does ask me to help those I can by sharing what I have. God doesn’t want us to ignore another’s suffering and walk by but to give with open hearts and open hands.

Prayer—Heavenly Father, thank you for loving all of us despite our circumstances. Strengthen us to share your love and kindness with our hurting world. Amen.

Thought for the Day—I can be God’s hands and feet in the world.

Wilma R. Vernich (Tennessee)