BE THE YES. — Matthew 25 Challenge, August 22, 2026

Sha'Liyah Vareya
5 days ago
2 min read

Matthew 25 Challenge — August 22, 2026

BE THE YES.

There is a small moment between noticing a need and walking past it. Today, we practice what happens when love answers that moment with yes.

Say yes to what helps. Say yes to what heals. Say yes to love in action.

Your yes does not have to be dramatic. It may be holding a door for someone whose hands are full, helping carry groceries, covering a small need, giving someone a ride, listening without trying to fix them, checking on a person who has gone quiet, or stopping long enough to ask, “What would help you today?”

Today’s Challenge

Look for ONE moment when you can say yes to a real need in front of you. Do something practical, appropriate, and within your ability. Let the person receiving help keep their choice, privacy, and dignity.

If the answer is no, respect it. Love never needs to force itself into someone’s story.

Why “Yes” Matters

Matthew 25 does not describe love as an abstract feeling. Jesus points to food, drink, welcome, clothing, care, and presence. Ordinary needs become holy ground when we meet them with compassion.

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” — Matthew 25:40

We cannot do everything. But we can refuse to let that become an excuse to do nothing. One willing yes can lighten a load, restore a little hope, or remind someone that they have not disappeared from the world.

Keep Dignity at the Center

Do not photograph or identify the person you help unless they freely want to participate. Do not make someone prove they deserve kindness. Ask instead of assuming. Offer instead of controlling. Let the act belong to the person receiving it, not to our need to be seen doing it.

A Simple Prayer

Father, give me a heart that says yes to the love You place in front of me today. Open my eyes to the moments I might normally miss. Give me wisdom to help without taking away dignity, courage to act when I can, and humility to serve without needing recognition. Let my life make Your love visible. In Jesus’ name, Amen.