Jesus told a story about the end of time. The King says to those on His right: “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was sick and you cared for me.” They ask: “When did we do that for you?” And the King answers: “Whatever you did for one of the least of my brothers, you did for me.”
The works of mercy are loving actions that help our neighbors with their bodily and spiritual needs.
The corporal (bodily) works of mercy:
- Feed the hungry.
- Give drink to the thirsty.
- Clothe the naked.
- Shelter the homeless.
- Visit the sick.
- Visit the imprisoned.
- Bury the dead.
The spiritual works of mercy:
- Instruct the ignorant (teach).
- Counsel the doubtful (give good advice).
- Admonish sinners (correct gently).
- Bear wrongs patiently.
- Forgive offenses willingly.
- Comfort the afflicted.
- Pray for the living and the dead.
Saint Teresa of Calcutta saw Jesus in the poorest of the poor. You can see Him in your classmates, your neighbors and your family too.