When, Lord?...Oh, then.

I came across this adaptation of Matthew 25:41-43 today. It's one of those "Ouch" things.

I was hungry

And you formed a humanities club to discuss my hunger.

I was imprisoned

And you went to your chapel to pray for my release.

I was naked

And you debated the morality of my appearance.

I was sick

And you knelt and thanked God for your health.

I was homeless

And you delivered a sermon on the shelter of God's love.

I was lonely

And you left me alone to attend church.

You seem so close to God but I am still very hungry, lonely, and cold!

~ (Author unknown)

Is it a surprise that as we rush through our day, we might pass people that need our help? Even in this story, the people - both those that he commended and those he didn't - asked Jesus "When did we do this?" Do you suppose Jesus' answer brought to their minds specific faces? The beggar they passed every day on their way to the temple? The children in tattered clothes unprotected from the cold or rain? The smile that came as a prisoner ate the small meal they'd brought? Their answer affected their eternity.

I'm sure I've missed chances too, and I want to use this text as a reminder to do better when these opportunities are brought my way. I have to say, it doesn't sound like it will always be comfortable. But I also don't want to be standing before God saying "When was that?"

What about you?