PODCAST

Divine Detour

February 3rd, 2025

John 4:1-8         

It was not just a road map decision, but a divine detour that took Jesus through Samaria. Due to the age-old feud between the Jews and the Samaritans, Jews followed a round-about route to journey from Judea to Galilee.Now he had (needed) to go through Samaria (v. 4).

Jesus was on God’s mission to spread the message of love. Possibly, the disciples had been taught from birth to despise the Samaritans. How do you think they felt when Jesus decided to go through Samaria instead of the long way around? As they followed Jesus, transformation occurred when their attitudes changed from reluctance to readiness. Jesus was breaking down barriers—not in theory, but in practice.

Are we building or breaking down barriers? What areas are difficult for you to break down barriers? Are you willing to change directions to exemplify Christlikeness? Jesus’ encounter was not a coincidence. It was God’s plan and purpose. If you follow Christ to break down barriers, it will not be a coincidence in your life.

Author: Lynda T. Boardman