These words that Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman were an invitation. Just as the eternal Word is ever inviting us, ever attracting us unto Himself, that day He was drawing this woman unto His heart that day. He wished to communicate to her, and did communicate to her, how compelling His summons was. He used more than words to impart His magnetic alluring.
First and foremost, He communicated this message to her through the very fact of His proximity, breaking all cultural norms to have a conversation with her. This man/Jew – woman/Samaritan interaction would have been shocking to anyone at the time, and this was by no means lost on her (v. 9). Even as the dialogue began, she was reeling from the impact of being sought out by this exceedingly kind, fascinating stranger.
Jesus also communicated His captivating invitation to her through His presence. Everything about His body language, His movements, the glance of His eyes, and the tone of His voice spoke to her that she was accepted and embraced. He immediately put her at ease with His graciousness. No doubt, all the words that kept spilling out of her mouth were in response to the welcome that she felt emanating from Him.
As He drew her in, the water that He offered her was His own Spirit. He was offering her Himself. The refreshing draught from this fountain would go into the depths of her and entirely satisfy her being. Jesus knew that He was the very life that she desperately needed after all the pain she had endured.
He was also longing for her. Even before He offered her living water that would well up to eternal life, He asked her for a drink (v. 7). This appeal was not a mere conversation starter. Rather, Jesus was sincerely requesting to drink of fellowship with her. A new relationship between this woman and her Creator would profoundly nourish and satisfy both her heart and His. His yearning to bring her into communion with His Spirit was as deep as her own need for friendship with God!
A few minutes further into the exchange, Jesus emphasized to her this desire, beckoning her into the spiritual intimacy of worship. Imparting to her the ultimate purpose for her creation, He earnestly expressed to her, “…The Father is seeking such people to worship him” (v. 23, ESV).
Daddy God is seeking worshippers. Today, Jesus’ invitation goes out to you as well. He is seeking those thirsty for the water of life, those who will delight in loving on Him and receiving His love. Will you drink of that water that will quench your thirst forever? Will you drink of His Spirit, His presence, His ineffable affection? And, in doing so, will you give Him the inexpressibly refreshing drink of communion with you? Will you ravish His heart with the effervescent pleasure of your devotion?
“When You said, ‘Seek My face,’ my heart said to You, ‘Your face, Lord, I will seek’” (Ps. 27:8, NKJV).
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What other observations do you have about Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman?
I never thought about Jesus’ first question like that!
In this story, Jesus was probably hungry. But he ignored any personal needs to reach her!
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Isn’t His heart beyond beautiful? 🙂 ❤
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Yes 😊
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In presenting the truth to her and revealing who He is, He addressed the issues of the sin in her life – multiple relationships and need for acceptance. When He brought this into the Light, she was able to see His divinity and know the forgiveness He was offering. Just as when Jesus said to Mary, where are your accusers ? Sin no more. One can not deny the Heart of Christ, when we are forgiven and drawn to Him. We must declare His goodness and gentleness to all the world. Len W.
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Wonderful insights, Len, thank you!!
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Wonderfully put Jennifer. Wanda and I have seen this exchange as just such an invitation for many years. Thank you for bringing this to the Light. He does indeed call us to that intimacy and union with Him. If only we would accept…
Blessings,
Homer Les
http://www.uncompromisingfaith.ca
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I am so grateful for His long-suffering patience, holding out His arms to us unendingly, waiting for our response!
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He opened the conversation with a simple request. She responded to a man but recieved the Word.:)
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Wasn’t His approach amazing? Thank you, Bonnie!
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Yes it was and You are welcome.:)
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❤
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With this exchange, Jesus had no concern for the status quo. He broke two societal rules by talking to a Samaritan and (gasp) a woman. May we all show courage enough to rock the boat when necessary– Mike
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Yes and amen! Lord give us that bold, compassionate courage of Yours!
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