A CUP OF WATER “IN MY NAME.”
By J. C. Musselman
In Mark 9:41 we read: “For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.” These words have a literal, present meaning as well as a future, spiritual one; for the plain, simple fact is set forth that a cup of water given in God’s name, “because ye belong to Christ,” is sure of a reward. Both the giver and the receiver belong to Christ; and though this fact may not be recognized by either, it is none the less true; and it is for this reason that God would have even the smallest act of mercy, kindness, or hospitality done in his name. It is also evident that we are not to take the narrow view of giving a cup of water simply because of the request. No; it is “because ye belong to Christ” that it is to be given, and it is of first importance that this should be fully recognized and appreciated, in order to obtain the reward promised. If we give only a cup of water or a dinner, how can God reward us for what we have done? How can a blessing accompany the bare gift that brought no new knowledge of God? It is easy enough to give in his name, and with the understanding that it is “because ye belong to Christ,” if each understands the simple act of giving as manifested in Christ, who gave himself—all of self. But many “have not so much as heard whether there be” any Christ, and many more fail to realize the fact that they are his. So, with your gifts, impart a knowledge of Christ as the Friend and Saviour of all. Find out whether the recipient acknowledges this fact, and then deal with him either as a fellow comrade in Christ or as a needy child of God. So shall you give “in his name.”