NNOA Dec 2019 Article

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Matthew 25:40

Tis the season to be jolly and merry is here. We can become enthralled in the commercialism of the holiday season. The expectation of gifts, giving, and receiving. The hustle and bustle of exceeding our limits on gifts that will only use once or twice. Worse, never used and thrown into a corner. This time of year, has a different meaning, depending on your faith background. One thing we can all agree on his helping those who need it most.

The above scripture text is a portion of a longer parable. In the parable, Jesus used the illustration of what matters the most. It is feeding the hungry; taking are of those who are sick, visiting those who are imprisoned, providing drink for the thirsty, and clothing those who are naked. The “least of these” whose voice is often lost and ignored. Those who do not have the luxury of being enthralled with the commercialism of the holiday season. But are trying to figure out where their next meal or bed will be.

When we take a moment out of our time and aid the “least of these,” we are following the plan God has designed for us. The blessings given to us are for us to share with others especially
“the least of these.”

Blessings,

Reverend Takana L. Jefferson, Chaplain, United States Navy