READING: Exodus 37:1-39:21, Matthew 25:31-46
Being Christian means being willing to serve others, even when they can give nothing in return. In Jesus’ description in today’s reading, the “sheep” ministered to the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, the unclothed, the sick, and the prisoner. That is, they ministered to the neediest people – and their willingness to minister to them was evidence of the conversion of their heart. So important to Jesus was their actions that He said their ministering to the needy was like ministering directly to Him: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matt. 25:40).
The sheep did these actions simply because they were followers of the King – not because they wanted recognition from anyone. That in itself is evidence of a transformed heart, as few of us serve faithfully with a completely pure motive at all times. It’s one thing to minister to the needy, but it’s another matter to minister to them without wanting recognition for our sacrificial actions. There’s a fine line between serving humbly and wanting recognition.
Disciples serve Jesus for His glory. Not theirs.
PRAYER: “Father, I want my heart to be right. Help me to serve others for You alone.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Exodus 39:22-40:38, Matthew 26:1-25
