"This is a large work I've called you into, but don't be overwhelmed by it. It's best to start small. Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty, for instance. The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won't lose out on a thing."Matthew 10:41-42 (The Message )
"Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you? Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.' "
Matthew 25:40 (The Message)
"Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you? Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.' "
Matthew 25:40 (The Message)
You know the feeling. You've read a Scripture over and over and think you understand it. Then you have a "God moment" and the Words take on a whole new meaning.
It happened to me yesterday . . . at a nursing home in a nearby town. I was visiting a dear elderly friend who is having a very difficult time just surviving these days. Because she is so weak now, I am barely able to understand what she says. Unable to do very little for herself, she depends on someone to feed her and give her something to drink. With no immediate family to care for her, she's often alone and at the mercy of whomever is on duty at the home, which is a beautiful facility with helpful employees.
While there I poured her a cup of water, put a straw in it, and held the cup close to her mouth. She seemed thirsty and drank, even though it was very hard for her to swallow.
Before I left, I remarked: I wish I could do something for you.
Her almost-inaudible reply: You gave me a drink.
Her words struck - and stuck - deep in my heart and as I drove home, brought tears - lots of them - to my eyes.
Such a small act that took so little effort on my part . . . but meant so much to her! And according to the words of Jesus, it was as if I gave Him a drink. What a staggering, yet humbling, thought!
. . . that was Me . . . you did it to Me . . .
It happened to me yesterday . . . at a nursing home in a nearby town. I was visiting a dear elderly friend who is having a very difficult time just surviving these days. Because she is so weak now, I am barely able to understand what she says. Unable to do very little for herself, she depends on someone to feed her and give her something to drink. With no immediate family to care for her, she's often alone and at the mercy of whomever is on duty at the home, which is a beautiful facility with helpful employees.
While there I poured her a cup of water, put a straw in it, and held the cup close to her mouth. She seemed thirsty and drank, even though it was very hard for her to swallow.
Before I left, I remarked: I wish I could do something for you.
Her almost-inaudible reply: You gave me a drink.
Her words struck - and stuck - deep in my heart and as I drove home, brought tears - lots of them - to my eyes.
Such a small act that took so little effort on my part . . . but meant so much to her! And according to the words of Jesus, it was as if I gave Him a drink. What a staggering, yet humbling, thought!
. . . that was Me . . . you did it to Me . . .
Little is much if God is in it;
Labor not for wealth and fame.
There's a crown and you can win it,
If you go in Jesus' name.
Labor not for wealth and fame.
There's a crown and you can win it,
If you go in Jesus' name.
~Kitty Louise Suffield~
11 comments:
How beautiful and how true. I am sitting here with tears in my eyes as a read this. So many times we think we have to do big things for
God, but it is the little things that add up. I love moments like yours when God reveals a deeper meaning in scripture. Thanks for sharing. Have a wonderful weekend. Carla
Brought tears to my eyes too. Forget sometimes how much very small things can mean so much to someone. Will remember your friend in prayer. Thanks for sharing. All of your blogs and awesome pics touch me so---sorry I don't always tell you that. Love you.
Connie
I just read this morning that it is a grace to be able to care for another person. What you did and many others do may seem small and insignificant but it all matters.
This story brought tears to my eyes. And a lovely poem, as well. It is very sad to think that someone is reduced to not being able to even get their own drink, Yes, a small thing. Perhaps you were both seeing Jesus in each other. Cute how you got that writing on the straw!
What an incredibly visible picture of the Words of God. I can imagine that was extremely moving for you. What a blessing you were to your friend, and to us to share that with us. Thanks, Glenda
such a poignant moment ... and thought
What a sweet story, Glenda. That sweet little lady probably appreciated that drink of water more than anything you could have done for her. It's those little acts of kindness in our lives which are so important. God Bless You.
Hugs
Betsy
Your beautiful story touched my heart! What a treasure you are to do this so joyfully for someone who can't do for themselves any more. Bless you!
Thank you all for your kind comments. My dear friend died Friday evening - at the age of 92. I'm so glad I visited her on Wed. and Thurs., but I regret I did not visit more. The last words we spoke to each other were "love you." I will miss her.
I will always treasure the quilt that she gave me - a quilt she made while she was in high school - and a pearl necklace that she once wore. And, of course, I cherish memories of my visits with her.
Awesome story!
You have a listening heart, and you share what you learn with us. We are blessed.
I will always remember the story you shared today. That it's not important that we do big grand projects for God (and for men).
But doing a simple favor for another is what makes God smile.
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