Old Testament: Deuteronomy 11:18-28
Psalm 55 * 138, 139: 1-17 (18-23)
Epistle: Hebrews 5: 1-10
Gospel: John 4: 1-26
From John 4:1-26
References to water flow freely throughout the ministry of our brother Jesus. Water is present in the narrative of Jesus’s life from his Baptism to his death upon the cross to which we will nail him. John the Baptist baptizes Jesus, and the Pharisees believe that he has baptized more than John. This is untrue. Jesus retreats, in the midst of the speculation, to Samaria.
He crosses the path of a Samaritan woman who is drawing water from the well near where he is resting. He asks for a drink of water. She questions him about why he would ask for water from her. Jews and Samaritans are not traditionally known to connect together, especially in relations between men and women.
This interaction with the Samaritan woman, on a deeper level, reaffirms his inclusive ministry in which he invites ALL to be a part. Anything that alienates, or causes separation, is forgiven by Jesus. This is primary to his ministry to this woman, and to us. Water cleanses, and washes away, all that has been done, and we are renewed into new life.
Her observations regarding his being ill-equipped to draw water from the well, and her questions about him being a prophet, or being greater than Jacob, are met with affirmations that he is more than any prophet. He is the Messiah. He can also offer water that will provide everlasting satiation. His travels beyond the well will lead him to the cross, precisely because of his statement to the woman.
It is no accident that when the soldiers pierce our brother Jesus’s side to ensure that he has died, water mixed with blood pours out. It was more than imagery. He is the source of living water. This living water sustains us, and always will, as we are ever connected to the Spirit that binds us together, in truth, and with our Brother Jesus, who will never deny us water, or any other need, as we join him in a state of Everlasting Life, and Abiding Love.
My prayer for Saint Andrew’s this Lent is that we continue to trust in this irrevocable truth. Showing and sharing God’s love with all our brothers and sisters, as we continue to carry out the mission of God’s Church at the altar, and in the street. Amen.
Griffith Still
This meditation is beautiful. I especially appreciated the author referring to Jesus as our brother. Also insightful was tying the living water to the water that flowed from Christ's side at his crucifixion (see "Vidi aquam"). After the horrific murders in New Zealand, today's meditation couldn't be more timely with its message of inclusion. Thank you and God bless.
ReplyDeleteThis is an awesome, thoughtful, and well-written meditation. It highlights with references the significance of water in scripture. Without water there cannot be life and without Jesus Christ there cannot be eternal life. Thank you for sharing this insightful meditation. Blessings!
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