A Cup of Water

Mark 9:41 “I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.”
 
JESUS had just affirmed that a man who was healing in his name was for us. To live and minister in Jesus’ name defines a true disciple. What does it mean to do so?
   The saving power of Jesus’ name became evident in Peter’s first sermon on Pentecost. Peter called the crowd to, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit…Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. (Acts 2:38, 41)
   Later, when the apostles questioned Paul’s conversion, Barnabas defended Paul, saying he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. (Acts 9:27) The power of Jesus’ name was also evident to the ruling Jews. Releasing John and Peter from the “crime” of healing in Jesus’ name, they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. (Acts 5:40) In other Scriptures the name of Jesus is simply referred to as the Name. 3 John 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans.
   John says that unbelievers will not help the true disciples. True disciples – Jesus’ true church – must help one another. True disciples speak his name with reverence, joy, submission and love because of his gracious care on our lives. We must be willing to serve and care for each other with a cup of water.
   A cup of water is a sign of gracious hospitality. In some regions of Israel and in the Middle East water was scarce. It required great effort to dig a well or walk miles for the day’s water. This is still true for some of you reading this, and it is true for millions around the world. How precious is a good drink of fresh water!
   When we read Genesis, we learn a “cup of water” welcomed Moses, Isaac and Jacob into the next phase of their God-ordained lives. John 4 tells us a cup of water opened a Samaritan village to Jesus’ salvation. Giving a cup of water is the demonstration of life-giving, nurturing care for your fellow Christian. How precious it is to care for each other.
   When Jesus said that all who help the disciples in his name will certainly not lose his reward, he affirms their works are a sign of their salvation. Helping and welcoming other Christians does not save us. It affirms our life is a response to our redeemed relationship with Jesus. Jesus’ church is to unite in our service to each other. 1 Peter 4:9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.
   Be a disciple. Honor Jesus’ salvation gift to you by honoring each other.  
      
Consider how kind Jesus is to save you. Be kind to his own.