In this verse, the righteous are depicted as being surprised at the Lord's recognition of their acts of kindness. They question when they had the opportunity to serve Him directly, illustrating their humility and genuine nature. This dialogue is part of a larger teaching where Jesus explains that serving others, especially those in need, is equivalent to serving Him. The righteous are those who naturally perform acts of kindness without seeking recognition or reward. Their surprise indicates that their actions were not motivated by a desire for acknowledgment but stemmed from a genuine love and compassion for others.
This teaching underscores a fundamental Christian principle: that love for God is demonstrated through love for others. It challenges believers to view every act of kindness as an opportunity to serve Christ. By feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and caring for those in need, Christians are called to live out their faith in practical, tangible ways. The verse encourages a selfless approach to service, where the focus is on the well-being of others rather than personal gain or recognition.
