One of the most notable character traits of Jesus during his earthly ministry was his undying compassion and willingness to help others. His intention is that his disciples will take up that same cross and show the same love and compassion to those in need.

When our lives become so self-involved that we no longer see the image of God in those Jesus called "the least of these", we are outside the mission and will of God, as the rich man in Jesus' story quickly found out--after it was too late.