In my daily devotional times, I’ve been reading through McCheyne’s one year Bible reading plan tied with DA Carson’s devotional “For Love of God.” Every day I am blessed and enriched from the reading of the Word, and Carson’s thoughts are always stimulating. Today, one portion of the reading was from Matt.25:31-46, a section of Scripture that is oftentimes used to produce guilt and manipulate people to certain acts of mercy. I want to be careful here, because the Bible is clear that Christians have a responsibility to reach out to and care for the poor, the suffering, the neglected of the world.

However, that is NOT what this passage is focused upon. Jesus divides those who cared for others as if they were Jesus, and those who did not. Who are these others? Most times, we hear that they are the hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick and imprisoned in the world – those who are physically suffering. However, Jesus makes it clear who he is referring to in v.40 – “And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” Who are those who represent Christ? Not just any poor person, but those who are fellow believers. These are the ones we are under obligation to help. These are the ones Christ says we must care for as if they were Christ.

Christ’s words are strong, and must be heeded. In tangible ways, we must show love for those brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering and struggling in the world. To do so yields sweet rewards, and to neglect the call yields harsh consequences. Here in Africa, we are faced with opportunities and needs every day from those around us, and we must pray for wisdom at knowing how best to truly offer long-term hope, assistance and blessing for “the least of these my brothers.”  Pressing on, Eric