March 14, 2006

Open the Milk Carton

He promised "wars and rumors of wars," offered counsel on when to flee the enemy, and told them stories about being ready and being NOT ready.

Then, at the end of chapter 25, verse 30 in Matthew's memories of the afternoon, Jesus leaned forward and gave them the Key to the Kingdom.

"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."

I think the disciples expected a different Key. They would have been more comfortable with a list of accountabilities that included tithing percentages, buildings constructed, and people baptized. Instead, Jesus gave them a mandate for compassionate action. The Key was a surprise, even to those who were "visiting, feeding, clothing, and inviting."

Listen to the story of Marjorie, one of those in our care. She is in her 90's, mentally quick, full of stories, eager to make friends and make new stories! But, her hands work slowly, and sometimes not at all. When the caregiver brought breakfast, Marjorie greeted her warmly and asked about her family. They had a brief conversation as the worker left the tray of food...including a whole apple, boxed cereal, and a carton of milk. The milk was in a closed carton, and the straw was still encased in plastic.

Ten minutes later Marjorie, now in tears, finally gave up on cutting the apple, opening the milk or even releasing the straw. Her fingers just wouldn't follow her wishes and breakfast was farther away than ever!

Jesus hasn't asked us to (just) deliver the food. Or even to deliver the correct diet on time and at the right temperature. He asks us to do all that...with His spirit of compassionate action.

It's surprisingly simple.

Dick Duerksen
Assistant Vice President
Mission development
Florida Hospital