Daily Devotional for Sunday, August 21

In Spirit and in Truth

For many reasons, this story is simply amazing. Where Jesus was (Samaria) and who He was talking to (a Samaritan woman) come to mind. You should add that not only was this a woman but was clearly a woman of questionable morals. That should make you listen up and pay attention, as a story with this background must have a notable purpose. 

The people of Jesus’ day had done a couple of unfortunate things with the teachings God had given them over the centuries. First, the emphasis on believing they were God’s chosen people had instilled a real sense of superiority among the Jews; those they looked down on, such as the Samaritans, were more than happy to return the favor and despise the Jews. Second, the emphasis on following the Law resulted in a people who did many things but had hearts cold to God. This is the backdrop for the conversation between Jesus and the woman at the well. 

Like the doubters today, the woman attempted to sidetrack Jesus into an unrelated conversation about rituals and practices. We worship here; you worship there. None of this matters. Jesus cut through the red tape, so to speak, and you need to do likewise. Jesus quickly established just who this woman was (a sinner,) and what the solution to her problem was. He presented the gospel of Himself to her. He showed her a better way. Can you put away the differences you put between people based on meaningless dividers and show people this better way? 

JUST A THOUGHT: The only thing that really separates people is belief or non-belief in Jesus Christ.

Wally Fry