A Ministry of Nourishment

"One Year Bible" Old Testament History Passage
II Samuel 17:1-29

"Now it happened, when David had come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash . . .brought beds and basins, earthen vessels and wheat, barley and flour, parched grain and beans, lentils and parched seeds, honey and curds, sheep and cheese of the herd, for David and the people who were with him to eat.  For they said, 'The people are hungry and weary and thirsty in the wilderness.'"  II Samuel 17:27-29 (NKJV)

There is a ministry of nourishment.  There is a ministry of caring for the practical needs of those who have labored "in the wilderness."  We find in this passage, the names of three individuals who appear here and perhaps one other place in Scripture.  In the grand scheme of things, they are "nobodies."  But they are SOMEBODY in that the Holy Spirit inspired the recording of their names for what they did.

I love the way their ministry is described in this passage.  It could have been said that they brought "help", or that they brought "food".  But the details here are impressive.  Note the many different food items along with beds, basins, and earthen vessels. 

It is obvious that the abundance of the gifts of these three friends became well known.  They were famous for their generosity. 

I want to be that kind of person.  I want to be remembered for how I helped people extravagantly when they were in need.  A cup of cold water is great, but let's give a BUCKET, a BARRELL!