"Loving the Least of These: A Call to Help the Homeless"
Scripture Focus: Matthew 25:35-40
Introduction
Good morning, Church. Today, I want to talk about a group of people who are often overlooked, dismissed, or even judged—our homeless brothers and sisters. We see them on street corners, in shelters, or sometimes not at all, as they suffer silently in the shadows of society. But here’s the truth: every one of them is a child of God, loved by Him, and worthy of dignity and care.
As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His love in how we treat others, especially the vulnerable. Today, we’ll explore what the Bible says about helping the homeless and how we can respond to this urgent need in our communities.
1. Jesus’ Call to Serve the Least of These
Let’s begin with Matthew 25:35-40. Jesus says:"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."
The righteous then ask, “Lord, when did we see you hungry, thirsty, or in need?” And Jesus replies:"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
This passage is not just a suggestion—it’s a command. Jesus identifies Himself with the poor, the hungry, the homeless, and the marginalized. When we serve them, we’re serving Him.
Application: When we see someone in need, we must stop asking, “Why are they in this situation?” Instead, we should ask, “How can I reflect Christ’s love to them?”
2. The Heart of God for the Poor
Throughout Scripture, God’s heart for the poor and the oppressed is evident. Consider these verses:
Proverbs 19:17: "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done."
Isaiah 58:7: "Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"
James 2:15-16: "Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?"
God’s Word is clear: caring for the poor is not optional for His people. It’s central to living out our faith.
Application: We must not only pray for the homeless but actively work to meet their needs—whether it’s through providing food, clothing, shelter, or simply showing kindness and respect.
3. Overcoming Barriers to Helping the Homeless
Let’s be honest—helping the homeless can feel uncomfortable or even overwhelming. We might think:
“I don’t have enough to give.”
“What if they misuse my help?”
“Someone else will take care of it.”
But these thoughts don’t align with God’s Word.
Luke 6:38: "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
1 John 3:17: "If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?"
We are not called to judge or question someone’s worthiness of help. We are called to act in faith, trusting that God will use our efforts for His glory.
Application: Ask yourself, “What small step can I take today to help someone in need?” It could be donating, volunteering, or simply offering a kind word to someone who feels invisible.
4. Practical Ways to Help the Homeless
Here are some tangible ways we can live out our faith and help the homeless:
Pray for Them: Prayer is powerful. Pray for their safety, provision, and for God to work in their lives.
Give Financially: Organizations like shelters and outreach programs rely on donations to serve the homeless. Even small contributions can make a big difference.
Volunteer Your Time: Many shelters and food banks need volunteers to serve meals, distribute clothing, or provide companionship.
Build Relationships: Sometimes, the greatest gift you can give is your time and attention. A kind conversation can restore someone’s sense of dignity.
Advocate for Change: Support policies and programs that address the root causes of homelessness, such as affordable housing and mental health services.
Proverbs 3:27 reminds us: "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act."
5. A Vision of Hope
Imagine a world where every Christian took Jesus’ words in Matthew 25 seriously. Imagine a community where no one is left hungry, cold, or forgotten. That’s the vision God has for His Church—a people united in love and compassion, shining His light in a dark world.
At Jehovah Saints, we are working to make this vision a reality. Through your prayers, donations, and service, we can build shelters, provide meals, and share the hope of Christ with those who desperately need it.
Isaiah 58:10: "If you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday."
Conclusion
Church, the call to help the homeless is not just a social responsibility—it’s a spiritual mandate. Jesus Himself said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me.”
As we leave here today, let’s commit to being His hands and feet in the world. Whether it’s through prayer, giving, or serving, we all have a role to play in bringing hope to the homeless.
Let’s close in prayer: Lord, thank You for reminding us of Your heart for the poor and the homeless. Open our eyes to see their needs, and open our hearts to respond with compassion. Help us to be Your hands and feet, bringing hope and healing to those who need it most. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Go in peace, Church, and let’s make a difference for the “least of these.”
Call to Action: If you feel led to give, visit our donation table after service or go online to https://www.jehovahsaint.com/give-now. Let’s work together to build a future where no one has to sleep on the streets. Thank you for being part of this mission!
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