42 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.”

Jesus emphasizes the importance of even the smallest act of compassion by mentioning the offering of a cup of cold water. Water is essential for sustenance and refreshment, especially in a hot climate, and providing a cup of cold water to someone in need can alleviate their discomfort and signify care and concern. By using this example, Jesus highlights that even the most seemingly insignificant act of kindness can have profound significance in the eyes of God.

The expression “because he is a disciple” indicates that the act of providing assistance is specifically tied to the discipleship of Jesus. It implies that when individuals extend support to those who are followers of Christ, they are not only aiding their physical needs but also affirming and supporting their commitment to Jesus and his teachings.

Jesus follows the statement with the phrase “he will surely not lose his reward,” suggesting that God will not overlook or forget the kindness shown to those who are considered “little ones.” It implies that such acts will be rewarded, either in this life or in the life to come. This verse affirms the belief that God acknowledges and values acts of compassion and generosity, promising a spiritual or divine recompense for those who engage in them.

There is sometimes a tendency to read “little ones” as to imagine children. But this is (apart from 18:6-14) a manner is which Jesus identified the disciples. France (415-6) writes: “Compare also the designation of true disciples as ‘little children’ in contrast with the ‘wise and intelligent’ in 11:25. So here there is no indication of a reference to children as such (though the saying would of course be applicable to a child no less than to an adult) or to any special sub-group; all disciples are ‘little ones.’ Those who go out to represent Jesus in a hostile society have no status, and may easily be pushed aside. It is only when people recognize the special significance of these ‘little ones’ through their relationship to Jesus and to ‘the one who sent him’ that they are willing to take them seriously, and so to welcome them with acts of basic hospitality. The cup of cold water is an essential though inexpensive provision in a hot climate, an act of expected hospitality as well as of kindness. It is not much, but even that little (‘just one,’ representing monon, ‘only,’ emphasizes how little it is), because of the attitude it represents, is enough to bring the reward.”

Image credit: Sermon on the Mount (1877) by Carl Heinrich Bloch, Museum of National History at Frederiksborg Castle, Public Domain