Devotion:
Read Matthew 25:31-45.
In his writing the story of the life, ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus, Matthew concludes the public portion of Jesus’ ministry in chapter 25. (The rest of the story is focused on private time with his disciples and events surrounding his death and resurrection.) Chapter 25 contains three stories Jesus told and this is the last of those three. So for Matthew, this was the last thing Jesus said to the public. Matthew apparently believed this story was a fitting ending to what Jesus lived and taught.
Notice that it does not focus on beliefs, but action. “What did you DO with your life?” is the question being asked of all of us by God. How did you make a difference in the lives of those around you? Did you notice those in need around you? Did you do anything about it? Notice these are rather simple, everyday actions that can be taken: feeding, clothing, welcoming, visiting. The focus is not on major sacrifices that need to be made (although those are called for elsewhere), but on simple actions that can make a big difference to those who can sometimes think nobody cares about them.
Who do you see who needs a cup (or bottle) of water or some food? Who could really benefit from a visit or a phone call? To whom do you need to show hospitality in your neighborhood or church? Who do you want to make sure knows God loves and cares for them because you are showing them that love and care?
Personal Worship Option:
Make a list of those you are going to serve next week and how.
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