Jesus the Evangelist
A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. John 4:7-9
Jesus’ compassion for sinful human beings moved Him to push through the barriers that often separate us sinners from one another. In the time of Christ ethnic and religious differences separated Jews and Samaritans. In those days it was also true that a man risked his reputation if he spoke to a woman in public.
But Jesus cared more about the woman at the well than about long standing animosities or current customs. He had chosen His route so as to bring Himself into contact with Samaritans in desperate need of the Gospel. Having made contact with this Samaritan woman, Jesus took the initiative and spoke to her. He reached out to establish a small relationship, a seemingly random encounter while traveling. And though Jesus has more to offer this woman than she can imagine, she does have something He truly needs, a drink of water.
When Jesus asked for water, the woman responded with surprise. Jews just did not talk to Samaritans, nor did they admit to having any needs “those people” could supply – not even something as simple as a sip of water in the noonday sun. We here see that Jesus’ compassion could not remain just an attitude of the heart. Rather it must become a reality of life, one that creates a real connection that would be turned towards needs more serious than a drink of water.
Lord Jesus, help me to talk to people out of a genuine desire to connect – so that I might have the opportunity to speak to them about You. Amen.