Quenching a Thirst

The Path of the Disciple: Learning to Grow

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A

We’re about hospitality this week. That sounds like a casual, or maybe even an extra kind of thing. “It’s not something essential,” we might think. It’s part of the social niceties that make us look good. But, in fact, we would be wrong, if that was our position. Jesus sees hospitality as central to our discipleship.

Mighty God, you have poured down on us all manner of gifts and blessings; the ledger of our lives is so overwhelmed with your goodness that we struggle with how small our offerings to you seem in comparison. The gospel reminds us that not even the smallest act of mercy and compassion – a cup of cold water – will go unnoticed by you. Give us the eyes to see those in need, the ears to hear those who cry for justice, and the hearts to comfort those hurting and grieving. If we all were to offer a cup of cold water, the world would be flooded with compassion. We ask this in Christ, our rock, and our redeemer. Amen. (Matt 10:40-42)