John 4:1-8    

Around the world, wells are dug to provide clean water. Water is essential to every living thing.

Jesus knew this was an understandable concept to the people. No doubt, He was tired and thirsty as He approached the well. More than that, He realized this was a God-appointed rendezvous with the Samaritan woman. The woman was shocked that a Jew would ask a Samaritan—and not just any Samaritan, but a woman—for a drink of water. Jesus answered her that living water could be hers if requested.

The woman and others interpreted living water literally as pure, flowing water as opposed to well water. She referred to water that was a temporary satisfaction for physical thirst. The woman either could not or would not understand.

Jesus offers living water that symbolizes the Holy Spirit who eternally satisfies our spiritual thirst. In our everyday Christian walk, do we settle for “a trickle of water” rather than accessing the “living water?”

Author: Lynda T. Boardman