As I write this, I have just finished a hearty Thanksgiving Day dinner. A cup of cold water seems a disappointing offering. However, in certain circumstances, a cold drink of water could be a lifesaver, a source of comfort or a sign of caring.

This caring concept is an ancient one. It is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew (Chapter 10:40-42), “and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple – truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.”

Stephen Ministers spend a whole training session on this concept. Learning how to offer various forms of the cup of water, not because they want the promised reward (although we all do), but because of the admonition from Jesus to offer this comfort to those in need. This is an action that Christ would take to bring solace to His children in need. We try to imitate Christ in all the ways that He demonstrates for us.

The cup of water can literally be a refreshing drink, but it can also be a smile, a word of encouragement, a funny story or a caregiver’s consoling presence in the time of crisis or recovery. The lesson here, of course, is that this course of action is appropriate for all people; you really do not need special training to offer this comfort.

Is it hard? Sometimes, yes. It can be difficult to smile at someone who has been difficult in the past. It is not always easy to strike up a conversation with someone who looks sad or angry. We are often reluctant to intrude on their privacy. My personal feeling, when confronted with a difficult situation, is that I need to look to the Holy Spirit for guidance in these cases. Turning my will and my life over to God with each request and then listening for the suggested action.

And, you know what? That smile, joke or hand-holding is a physical demonstration of God’s love for the person in need. How wonderful to be the bearer of that beautiful, powerful message! Read Matthew 10:40-42 and remember that God loves you unconditionally!

Terri

“Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” Matthew 10:40-42