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Some experts say that when we think we
feel hungry and yet know we shouldn’t eat, we should drink a glass
of water. The water will make us feel full and even give us renewed
energy. Such is the miracle of water. We can apply this truth
spiritually, too. When we hunger after things we know we shouldn’t
have, we can instead partake of the Living Water that is always
available. Only Jesus can satisfy our thirst.
ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES by Sally Bair
A Place of Refreshment
While boating in the British Columbia
inland ocean, my husband and I motored right up to a beautiful
waterfall to fill our water containers. The water spilled down,
splashing over us with a fine mist. The icy cold water felt
refreshing on such a hot, sunny day. We stayed there for some time,
allowing it to cool our bodies and freshen our dry throats.
Bethlehem was known as a place of
refreshment at the time Jesus was born. The word Bethlehem means
"house of bread." Back then, people leading camels and
donkeys and other beasts of burden stopped in that bustling town for
provisions. They also watered and fed their animals and themselves at
one of numerous inns before heading south to Jerusalem or north to
Hebron. The town's businessmen and women made sure they were ready
for those who would be passing through.
But was Bethlehem ready for Jesus when
he arrived? Was everyone except a few shepherds too busy, too blinded
by worry and fear to care? Even the innkeeper shuttled Jesus' parents
off behind the inn to a smelly, dark stable. Unaware that their guest
was the Bread of Life himself, they didn't recognize the One who
eventually would offer a refreshing cup of water, Living Water, to
anyone who thirsted after Him.
Christians are encouraged to offer a
cup of water in His name to those who are thirsty in both body and
soul. Are we saying a kind word to the grumpy store clerk whose feet
are tired, whose mind is fed up with impatient Christmas shoppers?
Are we blessing—in the name of the One who can refresh —and
praying for the stressed mom who is trying to finish baking,
shopping, and serving others, all before the big day?
"He who refreshes others will
himself be refreshed." (Proverbs 11:25) Are we putting the needs
of others before our own during this holy time of year, a time that
has become harried or hopeless for many people? And if you don’t
personally know the One who offers Living Water, what are you waiting
for? The time to be spiritually refreshed as well as to be a
spiritual refreshment can be right now.
Lord, we thank you for offering us
refreshment of our body, soul, and spirit with the Living Water of
your Word and your Spirit. As we travel on our own journey in life,
may our hearts turn to you, the Bread of Life. And once having
partaken of that wonderful gift, give us the willingness to share it
with others. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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