Works of Mercy

Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison and, visit you? And the king will reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.' ~Mt. 25:37b–40

Imagine you are the one asking the above questions. What answers do you think Jesus would give you today? If you're looking to add another Lenten activity, or still haven't decided on what to do this season, consider this.

Write each of the above questions on an index card. Put them in your car, on your desk, on your refrigerator, somewhere visible and accessible. Then start recording all the places you see Christ throughout your day. Where was he hungry? thirsty? lonely? naked? sick? or imprisoned? Don't just focus globally, look locally. Think practically.

Once you've found him in the needs and sorrows of others, think about what you can do. What kind of food and drink can you provide? How can you welcome and clothe? Whom can you comfort and visit?

These works of mercy don't need to be grandly orchestrated or financially draining. They are often simple gestures that seem inconsequential to observers but mean the world to the one in need. Maybe you share your lunch and a cup of coffee with someone at the office. Perhaps you take a family member shopping or run errands for a sick friend. You spend five extra minutes really listening to someone tell about their day, or you reach out to someone locked inside the prison of depression.

The message of this Gospel is truly very simple. Be Christ for others--no more, no less. How will you respond?