Once some of the elders were in Scete and Abbot John the Dwarf was with them.

While they were dining, a priest, a very old man, got up and attempted to serve them. But no one would take so much as a cup of water from him except John the Dwarf.

The others were somewhat shocked about this and later said to him, “How is it that you considered yourself worthy to accept the service of that holy man?”

He replied, “Well, when I offer people a drink of water, I’m happy if they take it. Did you expect me to sadden the old man by depriving him of the joy of giving me something?” (From “Taking Flight” by Anthony de Mello, page 158)