Sunday 28 June 2026
- Bible Book:
- Matthew
"And whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple – truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward." (v. 42)
Background
Jesus has been giving instructions to his disciples as he sends them out. Some of this is very specific about what to do and what not to do, with this in part being limited to the there and then. Consequently at times it's not the specific instructions that we seek to live out today, but the meaning behind them. Other teaching is clearly timeless and so we look at the most practical and basic act of being a disciple – giving a cup of cold water.
In the Church today we have our preachers and teachers, those who lead and those who serve. And very often the roles are intermingled with leaders serving and those who are focused on the practicalities often having to give a lead in other areas. It’s a rare local church leader who only has one task today. This passage reminds us of the importance of the small acts of service and kindness. In verse 40 those who are welcoming the prophet are welcoming Jesus, and in verse 42 it’s the seemingly minor responsibilities that are deliberately elevated to be on the same level.
In our congregations today we don’t really have a hierarchy anymore, at least in my experience. We all serve together. When I started out in ministry there were a few older colleagues whom I often turned to for advice. I remember one conversation when a senior minister talked about not recommending someone to go forward as a candidate for ministry. The person was a fine preacher, but when the chairs had to be put away or the dishes washed they were nowhere to be seen. No matter what the task, we are serving Jesus as we serve one another.
To Ponder:
- When have you been so focused on leading that you have failed to serve?
- When have you tried to hide in serving, when you were being called to lead?
Prayer
Gracious God, help us to know the blessing in serving others, and being willing to be blessed as others help serve us. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Stephen Skuce
The Revd Dr Stephen Skuce is the Superintendent for Growing Churches within the Methodist Church in Ireland.