The Gospel of Matthew 25:31-46 encourages us to live out the corporal works of mercy namely: 

1. To feed the hungry
2. To give drink to the thirsty
3. To clothe the naked
4. To welcome the foreigner
5. To visit the sick
6. To visit imprisoned
7. To bury the dead

 

 In a nutshell, our final judgment will be based largely on love of God but manifested in our love of neighbour. Carrying out the corporal works of mercy with the most noble of intentions pleases God immensely.

 

1. Feeding the hungry

We are invited by this corporal work of mercy to provide food for those who have nothing to eat, for those who are constrained in purchasing items to feed. So much of our food goes to waste, avoid serving on your plate what you cannot consume. Consider how good stewardship practices of your own feeding or eating habits can benefit others who do not have same resources. Try not to purchase more food than you are able to consume. If you notice that you end up throwing groceries away purchase fewer groceries this would eliminate waste and allow you to donate the savings to those in need.

 

1. Giving drink to the thirsty

This calls us to offer water to our neighbours in need if we have sources of water like well, tap water, borehole. Many people do not have access to clean water, and suffer from lack of this basic necessity. We can make life comfortable to our neighbor by providing drinkable water for them as water is a gift from God. Make an effort not to waste water. Remembering to turn off the water faucet when you are brushing your teeth or washing dishes can help.