DAY 133 BIBLE READING
JOHN 4:31-54
Reflection:
The first thing that brought these people to hear from Jesus was the Samaritan woman’s testimony (John 4:29–30). This is quite surprising, during those times a woman’s testimony was not usually respected plus the fact that this woman has a bad reputation. What might have intrigued the people was her sudden appearance to them to spread the news, remember she was getting water on timing that people usually don’t go out because it’s very hot (sixth hour = 12noon) just to avoid them. Her reference to Jesus’ deep knowledge of her past, and the fact that this past might have involved many of the men in town (John 4:17–18) probably added to people’s motivation. The bottom line, it was her willingness to act in the faith which started the revival in her community (John 4:39).
Once a few people met Jesus, they invited Him to spend additional time in town (John 4:40). This gave many more opportunities for Jesus to reach out, teach, and preach. Whatever the people of the town had thought about Jesus, based on the claims of the Samaritan woman, they now had personal, first-hand confirmation.
When we first heard of Jesus Christ, His redemptive works, His boundless love, it is not as impactful as when we encountered Him first-hand, personal experience between you and Jesus.
Can you still remember the first time you accept Him and for the reason, you cannot fathom, your tears just don’t stop flowing? (like Judy Ann Santos in Mara Clara or Ula)
Jesus has traveled with His disciples from Jerusalem, into Judea, and now into Samaria. The statement about Jesus being the “Savior of the world” is not only true, but it is also meant to be a lesson to the disciples. After His resurrection, and just prior to ascending to heaven, Jesus will instruct His disciples. His command then will be to “be [His] witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”.What He would have asked them to do, He has already done by example.
