11.1.23 - Matthew 25:35-36
What could you do right now to prepare yourself to experience God in the face everyone you encounter?
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.
In the concluding teaching on the last days, Jesus makes clear the criteria for entering God’s reign:
showing compassion for the afflicted and justice for the oppressed.
God’s demands of justice and compassion are ubiquitous throughout the scriptures, what liberation theologians have called God’s “preferential option for the poor.”
This special care is so profound that Jesus identifies with the poorest and oppressed, he is one with them in their affliction and marginalization–love shown to them is love shown to him.
We often see God in many awe-some places: the beauty of nature, the wonder of babies, the mystery of ritual and holy space. What would it look like to see God in the face of those who suffer?
What could you do today to prepare yourself to experience God in the face everyone you encounter?
--Evan Amo