Deeper Reflection
THE CONVERSATION BETWEEN JESUS AND THE SAMARITAN woman begins with the subject of drinking water from the well. Jesus, being the master teacher, used this as an object lesson to lead her from the physical aspects of human need, to a greater awareness of her spiritual needs. A man without God seeks happiness, security and peace from all sorts of sources – the possession of earthly riches, the power to control people, the ability to get what one desires, the blessing of false gods, and so on. But such efforts are like digging deep into the well of one’s own soul, only to find the waters of disappointment, frustration, anger, bitterness, guilt and shame. Such waters are polluted by the corruption of sin. Drinking them can never fully satisfy and one keeps getting thirsty again.Jesus invites people to receive living waters, that is, the Holy Spirit. This can only be done through faith in Jesus. One must believe in Jesus. Then and only then will the living water become in the believer “a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (v.14) and “out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (Jn 7:38). Such a person will never thirst again, because he has entered into a relationship with God, who will completely and permanently meet his deepest needs.We who have received the living water must share this wonderful news with those who have not: If anyone thirsts, come to Jesus and drink (Jn 7:37); believe in Jesus and receive the Holy Spirit into your heart (Jn 7:39). May they do so and thus thirst no more.