Listen

“Those who receive you are also receiving me, and those who receive me are receiving the one who sent me. Those who receive a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward. Those who receive a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. I assure you that everybody who gives even a cup of cold water to these little ones because they are my disciples will certainly be rewarded.”

Matthew 10:40-42

Think

Let’s be honest—everyone likes a reward. Winning something. Getting recognized. A trophy, a title, even just someone noticing: you did a good job.

But Jesus flips that idea. He says when you welcome someone, when you care for them, even in small ways, like giving a cup of water, it matters. Even if no one else sees it. Because the reward isn’t a spotlight. It’s something deeper. It’s getting a glimpse of God’s kingdom. A place where love leads. Where people are seen and valued. Where kindness isn’t rare—it’s normal. Where there’s peace, even in hard moments.

And the wild part? You don’t have to wait for someday to see it. Every time you include someone, tell the truth, or show up with care, you’re stepping into that kind of world. You’re living it. No applause. No trophy. But something better. You get to be part of the kind of life where love wins. And once you see it, you won’t want anything else.

Brenda Thompson

Question to Ponder:

What do you think it means to be part of God’s kingdom in your everyday life?

Pray

God, help me see the small ways I can care for others. Teach me to welcome, to notice, and to love like you do. Remind me that even the smallest acts matter. Let me be part of your kingdom, right here, right now. Amen.

Go

Go. You’re ready.

Start practicing today. Look for one simple way to build your life on God.

Start small. Pay attention. Notice where God is already at work.

God is with you, always.

And even the smallest step of faith can begin to grow something strong.