Who Deserves Help?

Bible Reading: Matthew 25:31-46

Nolan tossed his basketball at the hoop and watched it sail through the net.

“Are you ready to go serve dinner at the homeless shelter, Nolan?” Dad said as he came out of the house. “We need to leave soon.” Every third Tuesday, Nolan’s dad went to the shelter to help serve a meal, and Nolan often went with him.

“I decided not to go anymore, Dad,” Nolan said. He threw the ball again.

“I thought you liked helping there,” said Dad in surprise. “What made you change your mind?”

“Well, Brett Thompson says it’s a waste of time because those people don’t deserve our help. He says they wouldn’t be poor and homeless if they worked harder and made better decisions.”

“I see,” said Dad. Then he made a quick motion and stole the ball. “Let’s see who can shoot the most baskets in the next five minutes,” Dad said.

“You’re on!” said Nolan.

They took turns shooting, and Nolan soon scored more baskets than his dad. “You sure have improved!” observed Dad. “It was nice of your coach to spend so much time helping you this year.”

“Yeah!” said Nolan. “I didn’t know what I was doing wrong. Some of the guys even wanted me off the team, but Coach didn’t listen to them.”

“He didn’t let those kids decide whether or not you deserved help?” asked Dad.

“No,” said Nolan. “Otherwise, I’d still be—” He froze. “Oh,” he said, realizing what his dad was getting at.

“You know,” said Dad, “if help was only given to those who deserve it, none of us would have received the gift of salvation from Jesus. We were hopeless sinners, but He decided to save us by dying for our sins.” He tossed the basketball to Nolan. “I’m so thankful He did that for me. That’s why I help out at the homeless shelter—so I can share the hope He offers with others who need it.”

“I guess you’re right, Dad,” Nolan said. “It’s not up to me to decide who deserves help and who doesn’t. Can you wait till I change my shirt so I can go to the shelter with you?”

Dad smiled. “I think I can do that.” -Sandra L. Ardoin

How About You?

Do you think people in difficult life situations deserve to be there? Do you think it’s their own fault? Remember that some people may not have the same opportunities and support you’ve been given in life. Don’t judge them because of it. If Jesus had decided to only help those who deserve it, none of us would have received His forgiveness and salvation. Help others in need because He showed you love and mercy when you didn’t deserve it.

Today’s Key Verse:
Matthew 25:40 The King [Jesus] will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Show God’s love by helping others