It was only an everyday occurrence—an all the day occurrence—which I observed, and yet it had a voice to me, and may be a message for you too.
I was waiting for an incoming train at a railway station, and happened to stand by the large hydrant from which the engines received supplies of water. An engine steamed up and stopped opposite to the hydrant. The cap of the engine’s reservoir was lifted—water was needed.
How should it be supplied? What would convey it from that upright hydrant to the needy engine? From the hydrant hung, flat and limp, the riveted leathern pipe provided for the very purpose. In a few moments the mouth of the pipe was inserted in the engine’s reservoir, the valve was opened, and the water flowed in until the supply was sufficient.
“Ah! there is the Christian,” I said to a friend standing by. The great gospel has abundance of refreshment for needy souls—needy souls are found on all sides to whom the gospel would bring fullness of peace and joy and satisfaction. Who shall convey it? Who shall be the connecting piece? Who shall carry the needed refreshment to the needy soul?
The Christian is the privileged channel of blessing. He is left here with that wonderful object in view, and that he may make known to others the grace he himself enjoys, that he may bear the good news to weary and longing hearts on every hand.
In himself, the Christian has nothing—he is as dry as the leathern hose which hung from the hydrant. But through the Christian linked with Christ, there may flow rivers of living water for the satisfaction of the thirsty all around. Yes! The blessing is not in us, but will flow through us if we are but suitable for service.
Just as the leathern pipe was taken up and put into the reservoir, so the Lord will take us up and put us into touch with anxious ones.
Ananias was but a certain disciple, a devout man; but he was used to carry a message of blessing to Saul, who became the great Apostle of the Gentiles.
He was near enough to his Master to hear His voice bidding him go, and answering to Him he went to the needy sinner with the tidings of salvation.
If we abide in Christ we shall be used of our Lord, be joyful in ourselves, and be a blessing to others.
Do not ask yourself, “What can I do for Christ?” Ask, rather, “What can Christ do through me?”
“Make me a channel of blessing today,
Make me a channel of blessing I pray;
My life possessing, my service blessing,
Make me a channel of blessing today.”