This passage is often used as a call to charitable giving. It is that and so much more. Jesus is not generic in describing how people have responded to those in need, but specific about various needs: not "I was poor and you cared for me," but "I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink," and so on. If Jesus was hungry and you gave him clothes, or thirsty and you visited him, would that be counted as righteousness? Your good intentions might count for something, but Jesus praises those who identify and respond to particular needs.

If we met someone on the street in need, how would we know what they needed? In a Las Vegas food pantry that gave food monthly to a good number of families, one volunteer took a day to talk with clients about their specific needs--food and otherwise. At first, clients wondered if they needed to answer questions in a certain way to maintain food privileges with the pantry. once that doubt was relieved and clients could be honest, they talked about their lives and challenges. When asked what would really benefit their lives for self-determination, not one client asked for more food. Many stated that they really wanted help finding jobs. Most striking was that at the end of these conversations, clients repeatedly thanked the volunteer for listening.

Charitable donations are kind and well-intentioned, but too many churches want to solve all problems with food baskets, Thanksgiving turkeys, and Christmas presents. What is universally called for is listening, respect, and relationship.



Attend Worship: Pastor Jason has encouraged an "A grade" of 90% worship attendance (missing less than 5 Sundays in a year). You can keep up your attendance by joining worship online through our Facebook premiere or our worship online page. Join us in person or online... it will count!