The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Matthew 25 is often invoked by parish Vincent de Paul societies, church food pantries, or other social outreach ministries to remind Christians of the vital call to serve those suffering materially. Christians see Christ, especially in those who suffer from food insecurity, homelessness, and all sorts of forms of poverty. Most of the time, we might help strangers. They live in faraway countries or in different neighborhoods other than our own. While this is essential work, it is also critical to recall that most people in our lives also suffer and need our help. Around this time of year, there are many good charities to support to help fulfill Jesus’s call in this Gospel. Still, perhaps we might consider how we can see Christ in the suffering of those we know in our families, workplaces, and schools.
Although some of these folks might not be starving or suffering in extreme circumstances, their suffering still resembles Christ’s. These sufferings aren’t mentioned explicitly in Matthew 25, but people still suffer from loneliness, anxiety and depression, bullying, bigotry, and all other sorts of violence. We have the invitation to see Christ in all who suffer. This cannot be an excuse to avoid caring for the materially hungry or actually incarcerated. However, we might not personally know anyone hungry, in the hospital, in prison, or who has no home. And it is good to support causes that help people in dire straights. But I am sure we all know someone personally who is suffering in some way. How can I be Christ to those in my life who suffer while also going out of my way to help those in broader society who suffer more materially?