A Cup of Cold Water

For some people the summer offers an opportunity to ease off on the throttle, slow down a little, and enjoy the scenery. Still there are many people who continue to live life wide open, hurrying from one place to another, overwhelmed by the feeling of being constantly behind.

The stress can take its toll. Pretty soon, in addition to feeling exhausted, you begin to see other people as an interruption, if not a threat. You begin to question yourself—your motives—your values. Even if you are certain the things you are doing are helping make the world a better place for you and your family, you begin to wonder if it’s worth all the effort.

When you begin to doubt whether you have the strength to take another step, you are also in the position to appreciate the value of even the smallest gesture of encouragement.

A cup of cold water doesn’t mean much when you’ve been sitting on the couch for an hour or so; but if you’ve been out weeding the garden in the hot sun, it is refreshing nectar and you are delighted to receive such a gift.

I wonder how our world would be transformed if more of us looked for those people who need a cup of cold water—a word of encouragement—a sign of appreciation for the work they are doing to make the world a better place. I know it is much more effective to reward good behavior, than it is to punish bad behavior. More importantly, it is a much more gracious way to live.

As he comes to the close of his message to the Hebrews, the writer reminds each of us: “Keep on loving each other as brothers and sisters. Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!” (13:1-2).  

Let me encourage you to encourage others, welcome them, and look for ways to show them hospitality; and I’ll be praying that others will offer you that cup of cold water at just the right time.