The Way Of Sheep

Matthew 25:31-46

I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me. (Matthew 25:35-36)

THE PARABLE OF THE SHEEP and the goats at the Last Judgment is a powerful picture. It’s also a controversial one. For centuries, interpreters have gotten hung up in its details. Is Jesus referring to everyone who is poor, oppressed, and forgotten, regardless of their beliefs? When he mentions the least of “my brothers and sisters,” is he referring to the neglected in general or the neglected among the Jews (his kinsmen)—and therefore making a statement about our level of concern for the chosen nation? Is Jesus actually supporting a doctrine of salvation by works—it is clear, for example, that the only difference between the sheep and the goats is not in beliefs but in actions—or implying that real faith always results in works? All of these are legitimate questions, yet sometimes lost in the midst of them is a much bigger picture: the values of God.

God’s compassion is uniquely directed toward people who are hurting, even when their wounds are self-inflicted. He is clear throughout Scripture that he is drawn to the brokenhearted, the poor, and the oppressed. He does not categorize his compassion into false divisions between evangelism and social action or between government and individual policies. If we really lived like him, we would not fit neatly into any particular denomination or political party. We would simply care for people who are hurting. A lot.

Like Jesus, avoid political wrangling and philosophical nitpicking. Put hands and feet to your love and actually do something. Contributing to mercy ministries is one way to be salt and light in this world; getting involved at a face-to-face level is even better. If part of your mission in life is to embody God’s values, take your cues from Jesus’ strong words about compassion and live like sheep.

{Jesus, may I never get caught up in diversions and distractions that undermine the truth of your words. You call us all to meet real physical and emotional needs. Show me how. Give me opportunities. Soften my heart with compassion like yours. Amen.