Could This Be the Messiah?

… Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” John 4:28-29 NIV

I recently spent time in the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. This passage offers so many lessons. Astonishingly, each time I read it I find something new. This time when I read the story, however, I didn’t stop at verse 26 when Jesus told her that he was the promised Messiah. I kept going … wanting to go beyond Jesus’ declaration. I wanted to study her reaction.

Scripture tells us (I’m thinking understatedly so) she left her water jar and returned to the town. Her question: could this be the Messiah?

 

Think of It

Think of it … she just met a man who crossed a cultural barrier by talking with her and then–heaver forbid–asked for a drink of water. Then he went on to say he knew her history as well as her present, yet didn’t judge her. Instead, he offered her life everlasting and peace. If that wasn’t enough to blow her mind, he then revealed to this broken woman … the first person who ever heard these words from his lips … that he was the promised Messiah.

Incredible!

In so many ways we’re all like this Samaritan woman. Often we keep to ourselves, not giving others the opportunity to know us; afraid of their judgment. We already know the condition of our lives and think we hear the disgust in their voice when they speak to us. We’re certain they know all the terrible decisions we’ve ever made.

More times than not, that’s not even close to the truth. But we are known completely by God.

Here’s the beauty of the Jesus/Samaritan woman meeting. When Jesus asked her about her life and she answered him honestly, she gave him the opportunity he wanted. She shared a glimpse of her brokenness and he, in turn, offered her salvation and peace.

 

 

It’s the same for you and me.

Just as this woman’s life was changed when she met Jesus, so was mine. I have never tired of sharing what Christ’s love, grace, and mercy has done for me, a poor Samaritan-like woman.

Hiding past failures, pains, and brokenness may seems like the only safe option. But that is farthest from the truth. Sharing past hurts and sins with Christ as well as caring and safe people can be as healing to the spirit as removing a splinter from an infected and festering wound. It’s risky … and possibly painful for the short term … but it pays off in the long run.

In this season of miracles, consider sharing some unspoken hurts with Christ as well as a safe, respected friend. You may be surprised as to what it brings to you.

How are you doing today?

Know you are not alone. God is waiting for you, ready to offer comfort. While we get ready to leave 2020 behind and welcome in the new year, consider welcoming in the love of a Savior. If you’re struggling to find good in your life, check out my award-winning book, God’s Best During Your Worst, or check out any of my other books on my Book page.