The I and You

“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.” Matthew 25:35-36 (NIV)

Jesus’ words in this passage remind us that faith is not passive—it is active, relational, and deeply personal. He speaks as the "I," identifying with those in need, and calls us—the "You"—to respond. But this relationship—between the “I” and the “You”—is not about separation, but about unity. It is not “Us” and “Them,” but a shared journey of grace, where we recognize Christ both in ourselves and in one another. In serving others, we don’t just meet a need—we form a connection, sometimes with people unlike ourselves. Every act of kindness is an invitation into someone’s story.

At first glance, we see Jesus calling us to serve others. But what if we flip the perspective? What if we are the hungry, the thirsty, the lost? In those moments, Jesus is the "You"—the one who unfailingly provides, comforts, and welcomes. This passage is not just about what we do for others but also about recognizing how Jesus meets our own needs. In the process, serving others creates relationships, opening the door to deeper understanding and shared humanity.

The true service of Jesus requires humility, recognizing that we are not the hero but simply a vessel of God’s love. Jesus demonstrated this when he washed the feet of his disciples, showing that leadership is rooted in servanthood. Like him, when we embrace humility, we let go of expectation, knowing that the greatest reward is not recognition, but simply being part of God’s work.

Often, when we serve, we receive unexpected blessings—new friendships, deeper understanding, or even healing in our own lives. We may enter a situation thinking we are the ones offering help, only to find that God is working in us just as much as in the person we serve. Service is not just about giving—it’s about receiving the grace and wisdom that come from stepping into someone else’s world.

It’s easy to serve those we feel comfortable with, but Jesus calls us to see him in everyone, even those who challenge us. The stranger, the prisoner, the sick—these are not just categories, but real people with real stories. When we engage with them, not only do we offer support, but we also open ourselves to transformation, learning to see with new eyes and love with a deeper heart.

When we serve with open hearts, we begin to see Christ in places we never expected. Recognizing the depth of this call—to serve and to be served—challenges us to live differently. Faith is meant to be practiced, not just pondered. So today, let's reflect on how we can step into this invitation with open hearts. Today, we may ask ourselves:

• Where do I need Jesus to be the "You" in my life?

• Where can I be the "You" for someone else?

• Who might God be calling me to connect with, not just through service, but through relationship?

• How can I serve with humility, openness, and a willingness to receive unexpected blessings?

Lord, help me to see you in those around me. Let me serve with love, knowing that in every act of kindness, I am drawing closer to you. And when I am in need, remind me that you are always the "You" who provides. May my service not just be an act, but a bridge to connection. Teach me humility, open my heart to unexpected blessings, and help me see you in everyone. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim