Matthew 25:37-39 “Then the righteous will answer him, `Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'”

It is very significant to see that the righteous people, that is, those who did the right thing, weren’t thinking about “I’m serving Christ” as they did all these things. In other words, they weren’t thinking about doing them for a reward. These aren’t things people get paid to do, generally. Motivation is very important. Sometimes we do good stuff for our own sakes! Serving others out of a hope of reciprocity isn’t really serving Christ. How we treat those who can’t really do anything for us really reveals our hearts. It is significant, and encouraging, that Pope Francis has been noted for just this sort of attitude throughout his ministry to this point. I am not a Catholic and I have a number of significant theological differences with them, but I rejoice that Francis took the first available opportunity to point out that Christ, not the Pope, is the Head of the Church. I define “the Church” a bit differently, but I couldn’t agree more with his statement. Not just the Catholic church, but every church needs to be about the business of serving Christ through serving those around them.

Raised with the examples I had, helping others has always seemed very natural to me, but I can’t say I always do it without resentment! I need to remember Paul’s admonition, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” (Colossians 3:23) In that passage he’s addressing slaves, but I must remember that I am Christ’s slave, and serve others out of love for Him. I am not to consider anything my own, but acknowledge His ownership and Lordship, using things as He desires and directs, for His glory.

Father, this can be a hard point. I’m still very selfish! Help me indeed value fellowship with You above anything material, and above any use of “my” time, so that Your purposes may be fulfilled in and through me, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!