And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just. Luke 14:14
Getting repaid for something done is often expected. The majority of people do not care to do anything for anyone without some expectation in getting something in return. It is felt fair and just that everything done is returned in the same way. No one wants anyone to take advantage of them because of the goodness of their heart.
Luke records Jesus telling the people to invite those who cannot repay the kindness because they will then be blessed when they are repaid in the resurrection.
Providing a meal or service to someone who can repay it is commonly done. It is seen as common courtesy to return the blessing to the one who gave a blessing. Those who don’t return the blessing are considered rude or just taking advantage of someone else’s kindness.
The world will do kind things, but only if they know that the kindness will be returned to them. It is done for selfish advantage, rather than out of the kindness of the heart to just be a blessing. Getting repaid in this way is only getting a temporary repayment that lasts for just a short moment and is quickly forgotten.
Many in the church will do kindness for the same reasons as the church. It is all about getting something in return for their kindness or service.
Believers who understand what Christ has done for them will do things out of love, not to get repaid immediately. They understand that the real repayment comes in heaven, and it will be a payment that will last for eternity. The blessings from God will greatly outweigh what any person on earth could ever give in return. Kindness now is an investment in eternity.
Inviting friends and family over for a meal is probably very easy for you to do. Many of them will also invite you back over as a repayment. Although doing this is good, the repayment is paid in full and is only temporary. Choose to invite those who cannot return the favor. Be a blessing to those who really need it. Then put your trust in God for the repayment for your kindness. He will repay you when you step into heaven with an eternal repayment not just a temporary one.
Today I pray that you will know Jesus as your Lord and Savior; that God will guide you in being a blessing to those who cannot repay you; that you will see God’s blessings for your kindness; and that God will touch many lives through your kindness.
Photo by Ashkan Forouzani on Unsplash
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