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Matthew 10:40-42

Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.

During times of persecution, believers are forced to leave their homes and move around the country. They are always in need of food and shelter. Showing hospitality to a believer during these times is considered guilt by association. But in the eyes of Jesus, it is an act of service, and one that will be rewarded.

Helping a persecuted believer is the equivalent of welcoming Jesus. Taking care of a prophet or a righteous person results in a prize. Even an insignificant gesture (“a cup of cold water”) to a seemingly insignificant follower (“little ones”) does not go unnoticed.

Hospitality, however, should not be reserved for oppressed Christians. We are to reach out to all believers in need. Many require our help. Some have entered into a vicious cycle from which they cannot escape. We are called to serve all believers who are down by helping in spiritual and practical ways. And here’s the great promise: When you care for the hurting, you “will certainly not lose [your] reward.”

Father, show me the person or people you want me to minister to. Give me open eyes to see. Give me an open mind to understand. Give me an open heart to share their pain. Give me open hands to help. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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