Every time a new year rolls over, many people begin to reflect on their personal goals and hopes for the coming months. What if, instead of homing in on what personal achievements will be attained, we actually turn our gaze outwards? What if we just resolved to live with heart-felt compassion, heart-felt kindness, and eagerness to serve our fellow human beings?
Matthew 25:31-46 gives Jesus’ dramatic picture of the last judgment. The Son of Man gathers all nations and separates them, as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The difference between the two? Acts of compassion.
“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, 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” (Matthew 25:35-36, NRSV).
These are simple acts—feeding the hungry, welcoming the stranger in, clothing the needy of the world. They may not be great things as such, but small enough and tangible ways to therefore love our neighbors and as such, Jesus teaches us to love or serve him.
Practicing Compassion in the New Year
How, this reading challenges us to ask, can I make compassion a daily habit? It is so easy to be blind to the needs that exist around us as we move about our lives. But at the beginning of every year, there comes an opportunity for reset. Here are some ways you can embody the call of Matthew 25:
- See the Invisible: Pay attention to people you normally pass by and do not give a second look to, like a struggling coworker or a homeless person. Take time to notice them as human beings.
- Serve with Intentionality: You can also consider volunteering your time at the shelter, a food bank, or a community organization in your area. Your time and attention can change lives in ways you may never fully realize.
- Practice Everyday Kindness: A listening ear, an encouraging note, or a warm meal can go a long way. Small acts of kindness have a ripple effect, creating a culture of care.
Living the Gospel
By embracing compassion, we live the gospel. Jesus does not only call us into belief in Him; He also calls us into being followers of His by walking in love toward others. As we do His will in response to the needs of those around us, we are reflecting the light of a world in desperate need of hope and healing. Carry these words of Matthew 25 with you in heart as you go into the new year: Where am I seeing Jesus in persons around me? How should I love them well in that way? In little acts of kindness, we build up through God’s kingdom here on earth.