Can You Love the Least? By Major Frank Materu

Main Bible Scripture

"But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." – Luke 14:13-14 (KJV)

----Introduction

As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to love those whom society deems unworthy or insignificant—the poor, the sick, the marginalized, and the outcasts. In a world where wealth, status, and physical ability often define a person's worth, Jesus' call to love the least challenges our natural inclinations. He did not come to serve only the rich, the powerful, or the influential. He came for everyone, especially those in need. This message invites us to reflect on our attitudes toward the "least" and learn to love them as Jesus did.

----Loving Beyond the Outward Appearance

Jesus did not show partiality based on outward appearances. He did not seek approval from the rich or the well-established; rather, He lived to fulfill God's purpose, which was to show love and compassion to all people, regardless of their status. We are called to follow this same example. It is easy to love those who are rich, capable, or influential, but the true test of love is found in how we treat those who cannot repay us—those who are in desperate need and often overlooked by society.

"Then Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead." (Luke 10:30)

----The Importance of Humility and Compassion

Jesus often responded to the cries of those who humbled themselves and sought His mercy. The woman with the issue of blood, who had spent all her wealth on physicians and still could not find healing, humbled herself before Jesus. She believed that touching His garment would bring her healing. This act of humility is a powerful lesson for us today. It is through humility and a willingness to express our need that we receive God’s grace. Similarly, when we encounter the "least" among us, we must not view them with disdain or pride. Instead, we should approach them with humility and compassion, recognizing that they too are in need of God's mercy.

"And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole." (Matthew 9:20-21)

----Responding to the Needs of the Least

The call to love the least is not a call to look down upon others, but rather to see the value in every person. We are not to consider ourselves superior to those in need, but to recognize that their need is an opportunity for us to serve God. When we serve the poor, the sick, the oppressed, we are ultimately serving God. Jesus taught that whatever we do for the "least of these" we are doing for Him. Loving the least is not about gaining recognition or reward from others; it is about obeying God's command and reflecting His love to a hurting world.

"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (Matthew 25:40)

----The Dangers of Pride and Self-Reliance

Pride and self-reliance often blind us to the needs of others. Those who are proud and self-confident are often unwilling to bend the knee and seek help from God. Likewise, when we see others in need but fail to respond with compassion, we show that we are being influenced by pride and selfishness. Jesus warned against such attitudes, calling us to humility and service. The greatest in the Kingdom of God are those who humble themselves and serve others selflessly.

"But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant." (Matthew 23:11)

----The Blessings of Serving the Least

Serving the least is not without its rewards. While we may not receive anything in return from those we serve, God promises that we will be recompensed at the resurrection of the just. Our acts of kindness and mercy do not go unnoticed by God. When we love the least, we are participating in God's work on earth, and we are storing up treasures in heaven. True fulfillment comes not from accumulating wealth or status, but from fulfilling God's call to love and serve others.

"But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." (Luke 14:13-14)

----Summary

Loving the least is a powerful and transformative act that reflects the heart of Jesus. It challenges us to move beyond pride and status and to serve others with humility and compassion. When we love those whom society overlooks—whether they are poor, sick, or oppressed—we are serving Christ Himself. This call to love the least is not just an invitation to do good deeds, but to follow the example of Jesus, who gave His life for all, especially those in need. Through serving the least, we are not only fulfilling God's commands but also participating in His mission to restore and heal a broken world.

----Conclusion

Can you love the least? This is the challenge we all face as followers of Christ. Loving the least requires humility, compassion, and a willingness to serve those whom others may deem unimportant. But in doing so, we reflect the love of Christ and fulfill our purpose as His disciples. May we learn to love as He loved, without prejudice or partiality, and serve those in need, knowing that in doing so, we are serving Christ Himself.

"For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in." (Matthew 25:35)