John 4:27-38
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
This is the third of four parts of the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman. If you haven’t already, read John 4:1-26 before you begin today’s meditation.
As you read John 4:27-38 imagine you are one of Jesus’ disciples. Remember that they had only been following Jesus as their rabbi for a short time at this point.
You have to admire the courage of the disciples. Not only did he lead them into enemy territory, now they find their teacher and leader deep in conversation with a lone Samaritan woman, and instead of reacting with outrage they are amazed and filled with wonder. Who is this strange rabbi in whom they have chosen to place their allegiance?
Considering that Jesus was violating several social norms by engaging with the Samaritan woman, what do you think the disciples observed in his demeanor that led them to be curious instead of indignant? What is your knee-jerk reaction to people whose actions, customs or beliefs are significantly different than yours? Talk to Jesus about this for a moment.
Read John 4:27-38 again focusing on Jesus’ words about the harvest.
The Samaritan woman, having encountered God in the flesh, cannot keep this good news to herself. Having her hope freshly ignited, the former outcast now runs to tell everyone she can find. She doesn’t have to prepare, she just offers an invitation from the overflow of her soul: “Come and see…”
Stop for a moment to think about times you’ve been so excited about an encounter with Jesus that you couldn’t wait to share it with someone else. If you haven’t had an experience like that, consider asking Jesus for such an encounter before you read on.
The disciples, back from their quest for lunch, can’t quite understand why Jesus isn’t hungry. What they can’t yet grasp is how satisfying it is to be used by God to bring hope and healing to another person. Nourishment for the soul is found in following Jesus and being part of his work to restore shalom to people and the world.
A picture of the harvest is woven all throughout this story. The woman’s deep life questions indicate that God had already prepared her heart and soul for Jesus to harvest. She, in turn, is allowed to be part of God’s harvesting work in the lives of the people of the village. Jesus invites his disciples to open their eyes and become aware of God’s invitation to be part of the harvest of souls in even the most unlikely situations.
For the final minutes of this time of meditation, imagine yourself in the presence of Jesus. Imagine that he invites you to join him in his harvesting work. Notice any thoughts or feeling that arise in you and talk these over with Jesus.
Consider asking Jesus to open your eyes to the ways God wants to use you to bring hope and healing to the people you encounter today. Then during the day, you might want to silently ask Jesus to open your eyes anytime you are about to engage with other people.
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