My sisters and brothers in the Lord,
Welcome to week fourteen of BMW, Be My Witnesses. Last week, we were encouraged to form a small group with two other folks. Perhaps, that is an activity which is still on-going for us. This week, we will focus on a specific form of missionary activity, giving drink to the thirsty. Perhaps, this can be a first activity for our small group.
Mission: Give Drink to the Thirsty
“And whoever gives only a cup of cold water to one of these little ones to drink because he is a disciple—amen, I say to you, he will surely not lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42). Jesus not only urges us to so provide such a simple thing to others, but he himself called out for such a drink, “I thirst” (Jn 19:28), as he was dying on the cross. Is there anything simpler than providing someone with a glass of water. This is the second of the Corporal Works of Mercy (Matthew 25:35).
As an example of this simple work of mercy, notice that the rich man simply wanted Lazarus to dip his finger in water in order to “cool his tongue” as he was in torment in the netherworld (Lk 16:24). What we are asked to do does not have such drama.
However, we are asked to respond to the Lord’s thirst which is not just for water, but ultimately for our very selves. He wants us. And he wants us to serve him in others.
When I was a seminarian, one of my ministries was at a nursing home. Perhaps, the singular most important task I performed, besides just being present, was to give a drink of water to someone who was not able to do that for himself or herself. We also saw in the Flint water crisis, so many people donating bottles and bottles of water for our neighbors in that city. To this day, our Catholic Charities continues this provision though significant progress has been made to alleviate the cause.
Being a witness of Christ is certainly to provide such a simple redress to thirsty folks.
However, the challenge may be more difficult. We are also asked to address the needs of our fellow human beings around the globe who have no or limited access to clean water. Here, our contribution of time and talent may be more demanding, but it should be no less in the name of Christ and to serve Christ.
My Challenge
So, for this week’s challenge join your small group and visit a nursing home or a shelter or the Saint Vincent de Paul center or any other charity location. And then seek to do something very simple, like providing a drink of water. Or, perhaps you are more venturesome and seek a way to participate in addressing the greater need of thirst in our world. If neither of these are feasible for you, at least hear the cry of the Lord, “I thirst,” as he seeks our hearts and as that same cry is voiced by those around us. Until next week, may God Bless you.
I am sincerely yours in Christ,
+ Earl Boyea
Bishop of Lansing
P.S. Below is a video version of this week's Be My Witnesses. Please do share with family and friends. Thank you. God bless you.