"Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we you sick or in prison and visited you? And the king will answer them, Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. "
When was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you? There are two words that stand out in this part of the gospel message; the word saw and welcomed.
The word saw, past tense for see, seeing, or having being seen, requires an awareness or awakening of our visual senses. It implies our eyes are opened and we are paying attention. Let me say that again. . . our eyes are open; to the needs of those around us.
Not only do we see who is around us, but the eyes of our hearts are moving with compassion, grace, and love, being attentive to the needs of others. We welcomed you as the incarnation of Christ to the world. We reminded you of the value your life holds. We worked to salvage and protect your dignity, allowing you opportunity to bask in the grace and love of Jesus. "For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully meade." Psalm 139:13-14
We vow to take care of you,
to love you through the love of Christ,
to help you pick up your mat and walk.
God of all creation,
Open the eyes of our hearts to see and know the needs of your world.
Empower us, your people to see all creation with your eyes,
valued, wonderfully made, and unconditionally loved.
Open the eyes of our hearts Lord.
Open the eyes of our hearts.
Open our eyes.
We want to see you.
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