WEEKEND LITURGY

This is a rerun of November 11 and November 18.

This weekend [and the two previous] our gospel readings are devoted to Matthew chapter 25.  These are the last three weekends of the church's calendar year.

It is my choice to periodically volunteer my time to the Matthew 25 Ministries operation headquartered near my home.  This international organization is dedicated to supplying the necessities of life to the most needy.  It is just 26 years old but it has progressed from a one-man operation to one that supplies 15 million pounds of products in the U.S. and at least sixty other countries around the world.

Why did the organization adopt this name?  Matthew chapter 25 consists of three parables that Jesus told His followers that had to do with "end times" and how we will be treated.  The first week we are advised to be always ready because we know not when the time will come.  The second week, the parable advises us to use our assets and gifts wisely.  This week is devoted to what will happen if we do those things or not.

This third week is the part of the chapter from which the ministry derived its name.  In it you will hear God say, "Come, ... inherit the kingdom.  For 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."  Those who heard Jesus say this asked when that happened.  Jesus answered them this way, "Whatever you did for the least brothers of mine, you did for me."

Conversely, if you ignore the needy on Earth - you will be ignored by God.  Make the coming holiday season one in which you think of Matthew chapter 25.
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