Getting to Know Him - Twenty in the Series
About That Reward
Jesus said, “Whoever gives just a cup of cold water . . . because he is my disciple . . . will never lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:42) The act of giving water is its own reward.
During the 1960’s in response to an international appeal, our church brought three Cambodian families to America. All their homes and possessions had been destroyed by the Khmer Rouge. Remaining in Cambodia literally put their lives at risk. Bravely, they came to a new country.
The entire experience was a blessing to us all. We quickly learned these were appreciative, industrious people. They eagerly moved into minimal paying jobs. Then, despite their language and cultural disadvantages, they quickly were promoted to better jobs.
One man soon was offered an excellent opportunity, but he needed a car to travel to and from work. Ralph, a deacon in our church, helped him find a suitable car and signed a note with him to buy it. The lending agent was concerned about the arrangement. He took great pains to explain to the Cambodian gentleman that if he defaulted on the loan, Ralph would have to pay it. It was a kind but needless gesture. The man got the job and repaid the loan early.
As they left the loan office, the Cambodian asked Ralph, “Why are you doing this?”
Ralph replied, “Because Jesus wants me to.”
Now, back to the reward business. Ralph gave him more than a cup of cold water. Where was the reward Jesus promised? The reward was the very act of helping someone in need. That was Ralph’s reward.
