Scripture: John 4:43 (ESV)
“After the two days he departed for Galilee.”
After two fruitful days in Samaria, Jesus continues on to Galilee. Though His time with the Samaritans was marked by openness and response, He doesn’t linger indefinitely. Jesus was always on mission, moving according to the Father’s will, not driven by comfort or convenience, but by divine purpose. His departure reminds us that gospel work must press forward, even when the present place seems fruitful.
John Calvin observes that Jesus’ departure is not because He was unwelcome, but because His calling required Him to move on. He writes, “Christ was not bound to one place, but was called to scatter the seed of life in many fields.” Calvin notes that Jesus models a kind of holy restlessness—never idle, never aimless, but always focused on the next opportunity for ministry. Even success didn’t hold Him back from obedience.
J.C. Ryle highlights the quiet discipline of Jesus’ movement. He says, “There is a time to stay, and a time to go forward. The servant of God must be guided not merely by results, but by the will of the Lord.” Ryle warns against mistaking fruitfulness for finality. He encourages believers to stay responsive to God’s direction—sometimes we’re called to sow longer, and other times we’re called to move on, even from good places, in order to be faithful.
This verse reminds us that ministry is not about settling where it’s comfortable, but about following Christ’s example of obedience. We must be willing to leave what’s familiar—even what’s flourishing—if the Lord leads us on. The mission continues, and God’s purposes stretch far beyond any single moment or place.
Reflection Questions:
- Are you more likely to stay where it’s comfortable or move when God calls?
- What might it look like in your life to “move on in mission,” even from a place of success or fruitfulness?
- How can you stay sensitive to God’s direction in every season?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us what it means to walk in faithful obedience. Help us not to cling to comfort, but to follow where You lead. Whether we are called to stay or go, may we be moved by Your Spirit and not by our own desires. Give us eyes to see where You are working and courage to step into new places of ministry. Let us carry the message of the gospel wherever You send us. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 