Matthew 25:31-46, Pentecost A26
Theme: Generosity
Hungry
Thirsty
A Stranger
Naked
Sick
In Prison
These human conditions are not listed once, but four times in this Sunday’s scripture text. The first two times they are listed in relation to those on the right side of the King, the other two times to those on the left.
Those on the right side of the King recognized these human conditions. The others on the left did not.
Wait!
The King is the one who identifies himself as hungry, thirsty, a stranger, naked, sick and/or in prison. What is Jesus talking about here?! Kings are not usually thought of as experiencing any of these conditions.
As one reads the text it becomes apparent Jesus is referring to himself as the King. Then he makes another twist when he identifies himself as a person experiencing the six conditions which he lists four times.
The King (Jesus) identifies himself as suffering with the least of his subjects.
This is revolutionary. Jesus is implying the way one treats the least of his subjects is the way he is being treated.
He lists the conditions not just one time, but four times. He is never more concise.
It seems to me, he is being emphatic about how we are to treat those who are hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick and/or in prison.
If we of Christ’s Church are to be Jesus to our present world – It’s quite clear what we are to be about.
Come join us at First Christian Church in Warrensburg, Missouri this Sunday during one of our worship services.