The Upper Room Devotion for Friday April 12, 2024, was written by Roxie Ewing of Alabama.
Scripture
31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, 33 and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. 34 Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; 35 for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? 38 And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? 39 And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ 40 And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’
Matthew 25:31-40 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
Today's scripture reading means the world to me. This passage helped me to realize that Jesus wants us to be his hands and feet. I have found different ways to honor Christ through acts of service. Some years back, I began visiting a 94-your-old woman in a local nursing home every Wednesday. I found joy in hearing her talk about cooking on a wood-burning stove and other memories from her younger days. She went to be with Jesus at age 96.
Now I help with our church's food ministry. We give food to those in need and also make coffee at the church on Sunday mornings. I enjoy smiling, hugging people, and simply saying, "Good morning!" There is always a need that can be met. You might volunteer at the hospital, drive someone to a doctor's appointment, or send a birthday card to a church member. Even holding a door open for someone can be a way to serve Christ. We bless others with each act of service, and we are blessed as well when we honor Jesus with our hands and feet.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
You are a blessing from God. Now go be a blessing. Roxie's reflection underscores the mantra of our church. God has blessed us to be a conduit of God's blessings to others. Each of has the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Christ, offering compassion, grace, joy, and hope.
Author's Prayer
Dear God, thank you for allowing us to be your hands and feet. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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