But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and thou shalt be blessed, for they cannot recompense thee; for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just. Luke 14:13,14
For years, the old man trudged through the streets of the rough part of the city for several hours each night, giving out free coffee and doughnuts to the beggars, drug addicts, and drunks that he found. His coffee wagon was just an old shopping cart that a department store had thrown out and that he had repaired, and its contents included a large old coffee urn and containers of sugar and cream, along with several bags of day-old doughnuts that he bought from a local bakery. Although he had little money, Russell used what was left over from his pension to finance his coffee mission, and a few people contributed to his efforts. He asked for no money from those to whom he took the coffee and doughnuts. Often he would pause and chat with the folks who he served, and sometimes he handed out a Gospel tract. One night, he failed to show up for his rounds. His body was found in his tiny apartment, where he had died in his sleep. At his large funeral, the mayor declared that Russell had gone to collect his remuneration at the resurrection of the just.
Our text today is part of Jesus’ discourse in the home of a Pharisee, where he pointed out the folly of inviting people to dinner in the expectation that they will invite you back. He noted that the only reward in such hospitality is the hospitality of others. The eternal reward is for those like old Russell, who gave to those who had no way to recompense. During his years of pushing the coffee cart, Russell probably felt himself well rewarded by the smiles of those he helped. But the Lord Who keeps a perfect ledger marked each cup of coffee, each doughnut, and each kind word, and will recompense beyond Russell’s wildest imagination. What Russell did was unusual, but it was within the spirit of service and giving that the Lord Jesus displayed during His earthly ministry. The likeness to His Son must have delighted the Father’s heart as He watched Russell on his rounds. The Judgment Seat of Christ will declare what it was worth. You and I can learn much from Russell, and from the Example Who Russell followed. Will there be a recompense for us for service to those around us who cannot repay?
Yes, it will cost us something to give to others with no expectation of something in return. But we can consider it an investment. We can contribute food, clothing, and money to folks who are without. We can provide materials, transportation, or other services to people who have experienced loss and disaster. It might mean fewer coffee shop stops for us, less money for our own entertainment or vacation, and some inconvenience to us. It might even make us uncomfortable. But it won’t be a loss.
Do you have any interest in a recompense at the resurrection of the just? It will cost something now, but it will be a worthwhile recompense! – Jim MacIntosh