Biblical Teaching or Devotional

Welcome back to the Sanctuary Village International Ministry podcast. In today’s episode, we’re going to explore a powerful teaching from Scripture that speaks directly to the heart of our ministry. As we work to serve those in need, we are reminded of the beautiful truths found in the Bible that guide our actions and motivations.

“For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited me in; I needed clothes, and you clothed me; I was sick, and you looked after me; I was in prison, and you came to visit me.”

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”
—Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV)

In this passage, Jesus teaches us the importance of serving those who are marginalized and in need. He does not say, ‘Only serve the ones you know,’ or ‘Help those who can give something back.’ Instead, He calls us to serve the least of these—the hungry, the thirsty, the homeless, the sick, and those in prison.

This teaching is the foundation of everything we do here at Sanctuary Village. Our ministry isn’t just about providing physical help—shelter, food, clothing, or resources. It’s about embodying the love of Christ in a tangible way. When we serve those who are struggling, we are not just helping people; we are serving Christ Himself. Each meal we serve, every bed we make, every prayer we offer is a reflection of His love.

Think about that for a moment: When you help someone in need, when you reach out to those who are hurting, you are not just offering kindness—you are offering Christ’s love. And, as Jesus tells us in Matthew 25, He sees these acts of service as though they were done to Him personally.

Perhaps you’re wondering, ‘How can I make a difference? What can I do?’ The answer is simple: start by looking around. There are people in our communities who are hungry for food, thirsty for compassion, and longing for a sense of belonging. In every person you meet, you have the opportunity to serve Christ in a profound and meaningful way.

As we go about our daily lives, let’s remember that the work we do in the world—whether through Sanctuary Village, in our families, or in our workplaces—is a reflection of the love that Christ first showed to us. Each act of service, no matter how small, is a step closer to the heart of God.

Let me leave you with this simple prayer as we reflect on this teaching together:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the example You set in serving the least of these. Help us to follow in Your footsteps, offering our time, resources, and love to those in need. May we see You in every person we serve, and may our actions reflect Your love and compassion. Guide us in being Your hands and feet in the world, today and every day. Amen.

Until next time, may God bless you with peace, joy, and the opportunity to serve those around you. Take care.