Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me. (Mt. 25:31-46)

In English, being “the GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) is quite the compliment, but in Jesus’ parable, the goats at the Last Judgment “will go away into eternal punishment.” Interestingly, the reasons given are not about fulfilling examples of personal piety. While various religious obligations are certainly important, what ultimately condemns the goats is that they chose not to take their faith from the church to the street where they were called to serve the least of their brothers and sisters.  It is also important to note that when Jesus explains his response to both the sheep and goats, he does not use the words “for me”, but rather “to me.” This parable reminds us that we must see Jesus in those around us and to respond accordingly.