A cup of water. In debilitating heat, it can mean survival.
A large clay pot sat beside our gate. Full of water. With cup attached. Ready to meet the need of any passerby.
Unrelenting sun and desert wind meant dehydration was never far away.
The clay kept the water cool. Even on hot days.
A cup of water
At the time, we were living in a country where hospitality is a strong cultural value.
Welcoming the stranger if they ask for shelter is expected. Providing something to drink anytime someone comes to visit is standard practice.
My friend was helping me learn language and local customs. She said the worst offense was to turn away a thirsty person. Because a cup of water could make the difference between life and death in our desert city’s heat.
Spiritual urgency
Remembering the extreme physical need reminds me of the ultimate spiritual urgency.
Am I letting the living water flow through me to the thirsty?
Is this earthen vessel an open display of the truth to those around me?
Do I welcome the stranger with good news of eternal life?
Life-giving water
Jesus met the woman at the well with good news. He pinpointed a thirst she didn’t know she had. For life-giving water that never ends.
Today I remember the clay pot at the gate. And the living water His people offer in local communities. From here to the ends of the earth.
Available to all.
Essential in a dry and thirsty land.
Making the difference between life and death.
The gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
What about you?
How has the Lord reminded you to stay alert and ready to share the gospel?
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2 replies on “Cup of water”
This week our local group studied I Peter 2 and we were challenged to be living examples of Christ’s love. Sometimes that’s a text to check in with a friend, sometimes it’s a hug or a phone call or a coffee & chat. I keep coming back to the practical things. Sometimes I’m sending, sometimes receiving – it is always a blessing!
Yes to practical things! Thanks for sharing this, sister.