“For who has despised the day of small things?” (Zechariah 4:10 NKJV).
When I was in school, each sports team had a “water boy” (now called a “hydration specialist”) who made certain that water was available for the hot, sweaty athletes during breaks in the games. It wasn’t a very glamorous job and was generally performed by a boy who wasn’t athletically inclined.
I never saw a water boy score a touchdown or swish a last-second half-court basket. The local newspaper never published a story on the water boy, nor did the cheer leaders swoon at the thought of going out on a date with him. But where would the team have been without him? There is no telling how many points were scored by players who had been refreshed by the water he supplied.
Jesus said, “For whoever gives you a cup of cold water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward” (Mark 9:41). At the judgment He will say to the redeemed, “I was thirsty and you gave Me drink,” meaning that they did this for Jesus by doing it for their fellow human beings (Matthew 25:35, 40).
From its beginning, the church has needed brethren willing to give a cup of cold water. The early church had widows, orphans, sick folks, etc., who needed care. Today, those needs still exist. Widows still appreciate visits and necessary assistance. Nursing home residents enjoy a bright spot in their day when you come by to say hello. Sick people are encouraged by a thoughtful visit, card, or call. In all these cases and others, prayer together is appropriate and effective.
Your name may never be in the headlines of a brotherhood journal for doing these things. However, “God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints . . .” (Hebrews 6:10).
What do you say? How about giving someone a cup of cold water? Do it this week! It will help the team (i.e. the church), and the Lord will bless you for it.
–Joe Slater
