When did we see you?

Solemnity of Christ the King

"Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you’.” (Matthew 25:37)

Reflection

Notice both sides ask the same question: Lord when did we see you in need?  Neither the righteous nor the accursed actually recognized the King inherent in others as they went about their lives.  Their good works (or lack thereof) were not motivated by reward or the King’s favor.  They were clueless that helping others had anything to do with honoring a higher power.  
They simply loved with an open heart … or not.  It was in their nature.

Human nature means that we live each day with an open heart.  For me, this is symbolized by the traditional Catholic devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.  A Sacred Heart is an open heart.  It is on fire to help and serve no matter the cost – no matter the reward.  It’s simply the way you were made.

In this parable, the ones on the right naturally live with open hearts, loving anyone in need.  Those on the left somehow suffer a pain or fear which closes their hearts to the needs of others.  Sadly they may be clueless to the closedness.  

 If you have an open heart, please reach out and help those who seem to cling to fear.  Love those who cannot.  Help transform goats into sheep before the day of judgement.  You can do it … with an open heart.