ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
October 17, 2026
In Matthew 25, we find one of the more stunning and profound sections of scripture, where Jesus spoke about as clearly as he ever did about what it means to align oneself with the ways of God. Some call it the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, but unlike most parables, there is no absurd comparison or unexpected twist, unless you count the sheep in the story who seem a bit stunned that they had provided compassion and care to Jesus. Of course, that’s where we have the wonderful line, “As you did it to one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me.” This was not a metaphor for something entirely different. If you want to serve Jesus, it’s pretty straightforward. Today, I am especially drawn to the words, “When was it that we saw you thirsty and gave you something to drink?” Of course, this has a rather simple answer. People were not required to measure the worthiness of those who were thirsty or to wait until the thirsty made a confession of faith in Jesus. So often, there is a desire to put controls and stipulations on anything generous, calling it financially prudent. Yet in the bureaucracy that follows, a lot of people remain thirsty. And even more so, those who made the restrictive rules in the first place will get the title of Goat from Jesus. And just to clarify, it wasn’t a compliment.
Sometimes I need it presented rather simply, Great and Generous God. Wherever you can put it in plain terms, it will most definitely help. And when it comes to the practical things that genuinely make this a better world, I am all in. Amen.
