A drop of water...
On Monday, I had a conversation with a pastor friend who told me he had preached on the phrase, "A drop of water," in his church the previous Sunday. Since then, those simple words have stayed with me, prompting me to reflect more deeply on their significance.
It comes from Jesus' account of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16. Interestingly, this is the only parable, or account, as some believe, in which a person is given a name: Lazarus. Whether Jesus intended it as a parable or as a description of a real event, the message is unmistakable.
The rich man had everything in life but ignored God. After death, he found himself in Hades, in torment, while Lazarus was comforted in Abraham's presence. In his agony, the rich man did not ask for a river or a cup of water. He pleaded for a single drop.
A drop.
It was enough to reveal the depth of his suffering and the hopelessness of his condition.
We rarely speak about judgment today. Perhaps we fear appearing harsh or old-fashioned. We prefer messages that are positive and encouraging. Yet Jesus spoke more about judgment than many of us realize, not to frighten people unnecessarily, but to warn them lovingly. His warnings are acts of mercy, urging people to turn to Him while there is still time.
The Bible teaches that after death comes judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Those who reject Christ face eternal separation from God. The only hope is found in Jesus Christ, who bore God's judgment on the cross so that all who trust in Him might receive eternal life.
The rich man also made another request. He pleaded that someone would warn his brothers. Even in his suffering, he knew they needed to hear the truth before it was too late.
That raises a searching question for us.
If we truly believe the gospel, if we truly believe that eternal destinies are real, can we remain silent? God has entrusted us with the message of life. Family members, friends, neighbours, and colleagues all need to hear of the Saviour who came "to seek and to save the lost."
One day, opportunities to share the gospel will come to an end. Today they remain.
So let us not only be moved by the rich man's cry for a drop of water. Let us be moved by Christ's call to proclaim the living water to a thirsty world.
Reflection: Who has God placed in your life that needs to hear the good news of Jesus? Pray for that person today, and ask God to give you an opportunity and the courage to share Christ with them.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your Word that reminds us of the reality of eternity and the greatness of Your mercy. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, so that we might not perish but have everlasting life.
Forgive us for the times we have been silent when we should have spoken, or complacent when we should have cared more deeply for those who do not know You. Give us hearts that reflect Your compassion for the lost and eyes that see people as You see them.
Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and give us wisdom, love, and courage to share the gospel with our family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues. Help us to live in such a way that our words and our lives point others to Christ.
Teach us to live each day with eternity in view, making the most of every opportunity You give us. May we be faithful stewards of the good news You have entrusted to us, until the day we see You face to face.
In Jesus' name we pray.
Amen
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