Why Do You Do What You Do?

Recently Amanda and I made the tough decision (my words, not hers!) to cut our cable connection. With moving and a baby on the way, we thought it would be a simple way to save money. With only the basic channels to choose from, I have had to work pretty hard to find something good to watch in my free time. Although good shows are hard to come by nowadays, I did recently land upon a new reality TV show on ABC called "What Would You Do?" Each show consists of undercover cameras, paid actors, everyday people, and a planned ethical dilemma that ties them all together.

A few weeks ago, there was an episode where they re-enacted a modern day version of the Biblical account of the Good Samaritan. This particular episode had me hooked as I watched for the reasons why certain people are willing to stop and help while others simply pass by, keeping to themselves. What was most interesting about this particular episode were the reasons people gave as to why they reacted the way they did.

About a week ago, I was reading through the Gospel of Matthew, particularly chapter 25, where Jesus speaks about the separation of the sheep and the goats at the final judgement. The difference between the two groups presented in this illustration is how they react to the needs of others around them. Jesus goes on to explain to both groups that whatever we do to the "least of these brothers" of His, we do to Jesus Himself.

I get that. I have always gotten that. I should show compassion and love to everyone, as if they were Jesus Himself. What is interesting however, and what I often miss, is how both groups respond to Jesus' shocking statement. Both groups seemed extremely shocked at Jesus' pronouncement. The "sheep" just thought they were caring for those in need, while the "goats" never even saw the opportunity arise in the first place. And that is what I feel Jesus was getting at as He spoke these words. Just because I am willing to help someone in need does not automatically make me a "sheep." The "goats" were willing to serve and help others just as the "sheep" were. The separation between the two centers around intention. Why were they willing to love and care for those in need? This is the point of Jesus' message in Matthew 25. He is asking us, "Why do you do the things that you do?" Is it for a reaction from others? Guilt? Pride? A shot at gaining an upper hand? Need for approval? Or do you show love and care for others simply because you have been transformed by the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ?

I love how the "sheep" in this passage react when Jesus calls them "blessed" for how they live. Their response of shock shows that they have been truly transformed by Jesus and that their intention is centered around simply responding to what Christ has modeled for them.

So why do you do the things that you do? What are your intentions? If you are in senior high, join us this Thursday at Matt & Amanda's house in Harleysville from 7:00pm-8:30pm-ish, as we wrestle with this question. We will spend time watching part of the Good Samaritan episode of ABC's What Would You Do?" and then spend the rest of our time around the fire outside talking about intentions. Take some time before Thursday to read over Matthew 25: 31-46 and to pray about your intentions. We hope to see you Thursday!