Love in Action

 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 10:40–42

And whoever gives one of these little ones even 

a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, 

truly I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.

Matthew 10:42

“Well, I can do that,” Charles Spurgeon reflected when he read Jesus’ promise about giving a cup of cold water. Jesus tells His disciples that whoever welcomes them welcomes Him, and whoever welcomes Him welcomes the Father. In Jesus’ day, offering hospitality to traveling religious teachers often meant accepting their message and supporting their mission. Even a simple cup of water given because someone belonged to Christ was an expression of faith and love. Jerome, an early Christian Bible scholar, observed that Jesus mentioned cold water rather than hot water so that even those who lacked money or fuel could participate. No one needs great wealth to show love.

Mother Teresa once observed that some people could give beautiful lectures about hunger but never offer even a few rupees to feed the hungry. Her words challenge us to move beyond talking about compassion to practicing it. Spurgeon also recalled times when offering water to a persecuted Christian could put one's life in danger. The water might cost little, but the love behind it could cost everything. God looks beyond the size of our gift to the motive behind it. As John reminds us, we are called to love not merely with words but through actions and truth (1 John 3:18).

Who enters God's kingdom? Those who receive Christ through faith and whose lives are transformed by His grace. We cannot earn salvation through good works; it is God's gift (Ephesians 2:8–10). Yet His grace changes our hearts and moves us to welcome and serve others. In the hymn Take Time to Be Holy, William D. Longstaff reminds us to bring every thought and motive under God’s control, allowing His Spirit to lead us to “fountains of love.” As we grow closer to Christ, His love begins to flow through us in simple acts of kindness. Whether we offer a meal, encourage a struggling believer, or share what little we have, Jesus assures us that no act of love offered in His name will be forgotten. We do not need great wealth to show great love—only a willing heart and the courage to act.

Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul;

Each thought and each motive beneath His control;

Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love, 

Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

William D. Longstaff

Prayer

Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for Your grace. Open our eyes to the needs around us. Give us generous hearts and willing hands to serve others. May our lives reflect Christ’s love and bring glory to Your name.

Amen.