Have you ever wondered what it would be like to meet Jesus face to face? In Matthew 25, Jesus shares an amazing secret—when we help people in need, it’s like we’re helping Jesus Himself!

These verses come from a story Jesus told about the final judgment, when He separates people like a shepherd separates sheep from goats. To the “sheep” (those who pleased God), Jesus says these surprising words, explaining six ways they served Him:

1. “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat” – sharing food with those who are hungry
2. “I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink” – giving water or drinks to those who need them
3. “I was a stranger and you invited me in” – welcoming people who are new or don’t have a place to belong
4. “I needed clothes and you clothed me” – providing clothes for those who don’t have enough
5. “I was sick and you looked after me” – caring for people who aren’t feeling well
6. “I was in prison and you came to visit me” – showing kindness to those who are isolated or forgotten

The people are confused because they don’t remember doing these things for Jesus directly. That’s when Jesus reveals the beautiful truth: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

When we help someone who is hungry, thirsty, lonely, needing clothes, sick, or forgotten, Jesus says it’s like we’re helping Him! This means we can serve Jesus every day by looking for people who need our kindness and help.