“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones . . . he will certainly not lose his reward.” (Matt. 10:42)
GOD REMEMBERS THE DETAILS. The Scriptures tell us that He notices when a sparrow falls to the ground. He even numbers the hairs of our heads (Matt. 10:29–30). And He observes when we give a cup of cold water to a small child. You may not be able to preach a great sermon, but you can give a cup of cold water. You may not be financially able to give huge gifts to support the ministry, but you can give a cup of cold water.
It seems the Lord has chosen a cup of cold water to represent a simple act of service that anyone can do. It is representative of the many small ways people can show their love, interest, and concern for others. Serving others is something all of us can do, even if we don’t have great gifts or talents.
Three of David’s mighty men broke through the Philistine army lines to draw water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem and take it back to David, who had expressed a desire for a drink of that water. That was a bold act accomplished by brave, loyal soldiers (2 Sam. 23:13–16). But you don’t have to break through enemy lines in order to do an act of kindness. A small gesture, like a cup of cold water, also receives God’s attention and commendation.
Name an act of kindness you can do today to encourage someone. Now go do it.
Ron McClung serves as assistant general secretary for The Wesleyan Church and lives in Fishers, Indiana, with his wife, Carol. They have two sons, nine grandchildren, and two great-granddaughters.
© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
