Seeing Christ In All
Dear Friends,
As we gather our thoughts and hearts this week, our focus turns to a profound passage from the Gospel of Matthew (25:31-46), which presents a vivid and thought-provoking image of Christ's kingship and the final judgment.
This passage, often referred to as the Parable of the Sheep and Goats, begins with a striking apocalyptic image. Here, we see the Son of Man, a title Jesus often used for himself, coming in glory, surrounded by angels, and seated on a throne. This imagery, steeped in the prophetic visions of Daniel and Zechariah, symbolizes the authority and majesty of Christ as King.
At the heart of this passage is a powerful and challenging teaching about the nature of God's kingdom and our role within it. The King separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The sheep, on his right, are those called "blessed by my Father." These are they who have lived out their faith through acts of loving-kindness, serving the hungry, the stranger, the naked, the sick, and the imprisoned. Remarkably, Jesus identifies himself with these "least" members of society, declaring that in serving them, we serve Christ himself.
This teaching is not merely about charity; it's a radical call to see Christ in every person we meet, especially those marginalized by society. The righteous are those who have shown love and care without even realizing that they were serving Christ. This reflects a profound truth: when we care for others, we are participating in the very life and ministry of Jesus.
Conversely, those depicted as goats failed to serve those in need. In their neglect, they failed to recognize and serve Christ. This portion of the text serves as a sobering reminder of our responsibility to follow Jesus' example in serving others. The kingdom of God, as portrayed by Jesus, is not a realm of power and domination but one of service and love, especially directed towards those who are often overlooked or oppressed.
For those who have encountered the transformative love of Christ, returning to a life of indifference towards others is not an option. As theologian Stanley Hauerwas beautifully articulates, encountering Jesus leaves us without any excuse to avoid serving 'the least of these.' This service is not just an act of charity; it is a proclamation of the kingdom of God, a kingdom where the needs of the hungry, the naked, the sick, and the lonely are met with love and compassion.
As we reflect on this passage, let us ask ourselves: How are we recognizing and serving Christ in our everyday lives? Are we actively seeking to serve those in need around us? In doing so, we are not only answering a moral call but are actively participating in the unfolding of God's kingdom here on earth.
May this week be a time of deep reflection and renewed commitment to serve Christ in all persons, remembering that in serving the least among us, we serve Christ himself.
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Adam