“Now, before we can give anyone food, we have to make sure they are really in need and not taking advantage of us. If we serve meals, let’s make sure each person only gets one and nobody tries to go through the line twice.”

For I was hungry, but you would not feed me.

“I can’t believe those builders. Today was the second time one of them has come into our yard, turned on our hose and stolen our water.”

 I was thirsty, but you would not give me a drink.

“I know we should give to the poor and the needy, but these are illegal immigrants. They are in this country illegally. Why should I give to them?”

 I was a stranger, but you would not welcome me.

“I spent 100 bucks on this shirt. Besides, last time I gave to the needy, we didn’t get a thank-you note. People are so ungrateful!”

 I was naked, but you would not clothe me.

“Visiting hospitals just isn’t for me. I don’t know what to do when confronted with terminally ill people. It’s uncomfortable.”

 I was sick and you would not take care of me.

“I don’t understand prison ministries. Why should we waste our time and resources on people who broke the law. They need to pay their debt to society first.”

 I was in prison and you would not care for me.

 Then they will answer him, “When, Lord, did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and we would not help you?” The King will reply, “I tell you, whenever you refused to help one of these least important ones, you refused to help me.”