February 21 – “A cup of … er … car of water”

We had one big event yesterday.  It was not so much big in the sense of the quantity involved, but it sure was in the quality.  We received a delivery of water at the church.  Not from the water company to service a fountain.  This was from the regional representative of a group called Texas Baptists.  I had called them to see if there were any groups he knew of that were doing storm relief.  It’s kind of my go-to action after a hurricane, and that’s how Galvestonians are reacting to this Winter Storm Megan weirdness.  We dive in and get done what needs to be done on the ground.  We help our neighbors.  But often times we forget to take care of ourselves.  Hence, my first call. 

 

The regional rep, Ernest, is a great guy. One of the most joyful people I have ever known.  Always has a smile on his face (even behind his mask.  Sometimes you can just tell).  He is from the Philippines, and still has family over there.  I say that because he was really drawn to the way we do ministry at Seaside.  Especially the fact that we baptize in the Gulf.  He was baptized in the ocean as well, so that is a special memory for him.  Different ocean.  Same Jesus. 

 

When he arrived, we got his car unloaded.  Yep, that would be his personal car.  There are water needs all over Houston as well, so he took it upon himself to load up his own car and drive the water down here.  He heard there was a need and did what he could to meet that need.  Sounds eerily biblical to me. 

 

He did let us take him on a tour of the Seaside facilities, and he was really interested in the workings of the retreat center.  We may just see him and a group from his Houston church sometime in the future.  One quick photo in front of the water and a sweet prayer together, and he was on his way once again.  Thanks, Ernest.  And thanks, Jesus, for affecting in him a compassionate heart. 

 

Matthew 10:42 says, “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.”

 

Father, please bless Ernest in his ministry and family and church life.  Keep him joyful.  Amen.