New Beginnings

Jesus told us we should always be looking for and available to help people in need. In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus tells us that when we help the people—that He created—it’s the same as helping Jesus himself. Jesus thanked a group of people for giving him a drink and feeding him when he was hungry. He thanked them for giving him a place to stay and clothes to wear. You took care of me when I was sick and even visited me in prison. This small group of confused people said we have known you for years and we never did any of these things for you. Jesus was pointing out that this small group of people was viewing the world through his eyes and helping anyone they saw with a need was equivalent to helping him.

To another group of people he said you saw that I was thirsty, hungry, naked, sick, and in prison and you never helped me. This second larger group of people said we never saw you in need of water, food, or clothing. You were never sick or in prison. This larger group of people saw the same exact people in need and chose to ignore them. They saw these people through worldly eyes and couldn’t be troubled to take time out of their busy schedule to help someone else.

Jesus praised the first group and condemned the second group. Which group do you identify with? Today let’s remember that Jesus helped people in need to start a new beginning. He gave them hope for a future and told them the Good News that he was about to offer to all people. Jesus helps us to overcome our past and focus on today and our new future. Ask yourself, how can I help someone begin this new journey? As you meet people that God places in your circle of influence, why not ask them how can I help you.  

As we take the bread that represents the body of Jesus remember that it represents our ability to help people with their daily needs.

And as we drink the juice that represents his blood, remember that no one who searches for forgiveness from their wrong-doings will ever be rejected by Jesus. His blood is what restored our relationship with God and gives us eternal life.