Scripture: John 4:7 (ESV) – “A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, ‘Give me a drink.’”
This verse marks the beginning of one of the most remarkable encounters in Jesus’ ministry. A Samaritan woman, coming to Jacob’s well at an unusual hour, finds herself face to face with the Messiah. Jesus, in His humanity, is thirsty, yet in His divinity, He is about to quench a deeper thirst—the longing of a soul in need of salvation.
The document highlights how unusual this situation was. First, this woman was coming to the well alone at noon, a time when most women would have already drawn water in the morning or evening. Her timing suggests she was an outcast, likely avoiding the judgment of others because of her past. Second, Jesus breaks cultural barriers by speaking to her. As a Jewish man, He was expected to avoid conversation with a Samaritan, let alone a woman with a questionable reputation. Yet, Jesus does not conform to social norms; instead, He reaches out with grace.
James Montgomery Boice, in his Expositional Commentary on the Gospel of John, emphasizes the deliberate nature of this encounter. Jesus’ request for water was not incidental—it was a means of drawing the woman into a deeper conversation about spiritual thirst. Boice points out that Jesus often initiates discussions with people in ways that seem ordinary, yet they lead to profound truths. Here, He begins with a simple request but will soon offer living water that leads to eternal life.
For us, this verse reminds us that Jesus meets us where we are, even in our brokenness. He does not wait for us to have everything figured out before approaching us. Just as He sought out this Samaritan woman, He seeks us, inviting us to receive the living water only He can provide.
Reflection Questions:
- Why is it significant that Jesus speaks to a Samaritan woman, despite cultural and social barriers?
- How has Jesus met you in unexpected ways, drawing you into a deeper relationship with Him?
- How can you follow Jesus’ example by breaking social barriers to share the gospel with others?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for seeking out the lost and broken, just as You did with the Samaritan woman. Teach us to see people as You do, without prejudice or fear. Help us to recognize divine appointments in our daily lives, where we can extend Your love and truth. May we thirst for the living water that only You can give, and may we share that water with others. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 