Matthew 25:31-40

Meditatio (Reflecting)

Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.

Oratio (Responding)

This is matthews version of this parable. It starts with separating sheep from goats, and that the good will be taken into heaven and the bad will be sent to punishment. But what must you do to make it into heaven. God says, when I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me. Recently I was aggressively approached by someone in a parking lot, they were asking for money, I said I do not have any cash, and she said well go to the bank, and get some. She made me feel like she was not really in need and because she was so aggressive I just left. But I still think about her, and I don’t know why. I am willing to help, I do often give when I can, but this person completely turned off that generosity switch in me. I don’t think that Jesus would have approached me like that, or would he. I don’t know, but reading this passage today makes me sad that i did not do more. I am sorry lord for not helping your child. I do want to be better at this. I need to remember that they are your beloved child, they have a name, and they have struggles and joys just like I do. Help me lord to be better at this, give me the grace to ask their name, to find out how I can help them, and to then act in a way that is conducive to their well being, and not just supporting their sins. I want to be in the sheep coral, and not in the goat one.

Contemplatio (Contemplating)

Take time to simply remain in the presence of God.

Resolutio (Resolving)

Oh lord, This is what you called us to do, to help the poor. I want to be a good son to you, and a good brother to your children. Help me today to possibly extend your kingdom and raise up your family in this world.