Water in the Desert

Bible Reading: Psalm 63:1-8; John 4:7-15

Omandi watched through wide, pleading eyes as his brother packed his truck. Every summer, Omandi visited Jimiyu and his wife for a whole week. They lived in Namanga, which was not far from Amboseli National Park, where Jimiyu managed the lion, giraffe, zebra, and elephant populations that roamed there.

“I wish I could spend the day with you. Can’t I come along?” Omandi asked, hoping his brother might reconsider.

Jimiyu wiped a sleeve over his brow that already glistened with sweat. “I’m sorry, Omandi, but not today. We had reports of poachers overnight, so I have a lot of work to do. I could use your help loading the rest of this shipment though. Hand me that box of tranquillizers.”

Together, they packed the vehicle with supplies bound for the park—blankets, printer paper, medicines, and several cans of gasoline. Then Jimiyu slid his rifle and three boxes of ammunition under the front seat. “Now for the most important item,” he said.

“Water!” Omandi exclaimed. Everyone who had lived through Kenya’s dry season knew just how important water was.

Jimiyu reached for the heavy jugs. “We wouldn’t last a day in this heat without it. And neither would the animals. The swamps are what draw them to Amboseli.”

Omandi helped him make room in the truck, then Jimiyu closed the door thoughtfully. “Did you know that in one of the Psalms, David compares his longing for God to the panting of a thirsty animal?” he asked. “That’s a familiar image in the park—one that reminds me how much I long for God’s presence in my life. Without Him, I could do nothing.”

“Do you need Him even more than water?” Omandi asked.

“I certainly do!” Jimiyu said, rubbing his little brother’s head. “In the New Testament, Jesus calls Himself living water because we can’t live without Him. He saves us from sin and gives us eternal life. When our hearts feel thirsty, we can go to Him and He will refresh us.”

Jimiyu got into the truck. “How about you spend some time with Jesus today while I’m away?” he said, turning to his brother. “Then tomorrow I’ll take you to see the lions at the watering hole. Deal?”

Omandi grinned. “Deal!” • Michelle Isenhoff

How About You?

Have you ever been so thirsty all you can think about is a cool glass of water? We need Jesus like we need water. He washes us clean from sin and gives us life, and He refreshes us when our hearts become dry and thirsty. The next time you take a drink, spend a few minutes talking to Jesus and growing your friendship with Him. Let Him refresh your thirsty soul.

Today’s Key Verse:
Psalm 42:1 As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. (NIV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus is living water