10.04.08
"Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren this you do unto Me.". You know this statement of Christ, as do I. But have we thought about, and considered, who or what is lesser than the "you" that I am or you are?
It takes little imagination or wit to immediately think of the poor, the defenseless, the ill or the retarded, for example as "lesser". Surely, Christ was referring to these sorts of folks. But is that the totality of his challenge? To be kind or generous to those obviously deserving our concerns? Could the "least of my brethren" also include those whom I (or you) have chosen to judge as lesser-than-me? Minorities, co-workers/employees, poorly dressed or mannered, family members, for example?
If I am holding a grudge against someone then am I not considering them to be lesser than me (i.e. somewhat despicable)? If I allow my grudge to negatively affect my interactions with that person then am I not failing that challenge of Jesus? "But," you might think, "I don't treat her badly I merely avoid any interaction with her...it is better for both of us that way." "Really," I might ask myself prudently, "have I asked HER if it is better that way?" When determining your actions have you ever considered the concept of the sins of ommission? The sin of doing nothing when something is required is also a mistreatment of the "least".
Wouldn't you agree?
