Jesus Christ did not simply die to forgive our sins. If that were all He did we would still have a wonderful gift for which we would be eternally grateful. But when we believe in Him we also receive another gift. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit who, because we have been made holy by our faith in Jesus, can join Himself to us forever. Not only are Christians forgiven but we are also filled and that makes the good news of the gospel even better. Jesus gives dry, thirsty people “rivers of living water” meaning we have an unlimited supply of God’s presence always available to us. All we need to do is ask in prayer and He will refresh us with His Spirit.

Throughout Israel’s history God ordered certain events so they would prophetically point to the ministry of Jesus Christ. By doing this He was preparing their hearts and minds to recognize their Messiah when He came. The Rock which poured out rivers of water at Rephidim was one of these events. It is a powerful illustration of the crucifixion of our Lord. But it also challenges us to remember the other gift Jesus has given us—the Holy Spirit whose limitless presence in us opens the door to a brand new life.