The Least of These

"And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me'" (Matt. 25:40, ESV).

I'm still ruminating on the the message, "Crucified Orphan Care," by Dr. Russell Moore.  His repeated reference to the "least of these" won't let me go.  Human beings, even in their fallen state, bear the image of God.  If we combine this truth with the fact that Jesus died to redeem them, then it is easy to see that human life is worthy of dignity and honor.

But are we quick to see that image in others? Do we serve others out of desire to serve the Lord?  Do we understand that each individual is "the least of these?"  As I listened to Dr. Moore this evening I had to acknowledge that I wasn't always quick to see the image of God in others.  Somehow I forgot that Jesus views the least of these as his brothers.

When we receive someone in the name of Christ, we receive Christ.  When we receive Christ, we receive the one who sent him.  Thus, the time we spend with the least of these, whether children or others, is time spent with Christ.  As we minister to their needs we minister to Christ.  If we are to do this in the manner in which he desires, then we need his strength to flow through us.