For the Least of These

I was hungry, and you gave me food to eat.

You could have chased me off or turned away,

Or scorned me, made my abject shame complete.

Instead, you helped me live another day.

I was thirsty, and with me your water shared,

So cool and soothing to my parchéd tongue.

By actions, your benevolence declared,

Your generosity (‘til now) unsung.

I was a stranger, and you offered me

The recognition as a human being.

Brought low by circumstances though I be,

Your kindness helped to salve privation’s sting.

My life, with all its woeful waste and want

Is my responsibility to claim.

My choices badly made will ever haunt,

But in gratitude, I will recall your name.