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 Let’s explore Jesus’ encounters with water, a recurring and significant symbol in the Bible. These interactions, like his conversation with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well, reveal key insights into his divine nature and his provision for us. This exploration goes beyond simply recounting biblical stories. We’ll examine how Jesus uses water to illustrate his offer of sustenance that goes beyond physical needs. From the ‘living water,’ he offers the Samaritan woman, to the wine created at the wedding feast, and even in how he works in our lives today, we’ll see how he provides spiritual satisfaction that is both deep and lasting. Join us as we delve into these powerful moments and discover how Jesus’ interactions with water can refresh and transform our own lives. Let’s explore how he offers ‘living water’ that deeply satisfies us. A collective reflection on God’s grace and our chances for renewal Saturday, March 29, 2025 |
Seeing Jesus in others Matthew 25:35-40 In Matthew 25:35-40 Jesus says, “For I was hungry and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.” It’s a reminder that helping those in need is not just a nice thing to do but a way of serving Jesus himself. That idea is a humbling one for me. When I was a kid, my family and I regularly volunteered at a homeless shelter in town. We spent the day serving meals, talking with people, playing games, and just trying to make them feel seen and heard. As we handed out plates of food, I remember feeling like I was doing something tiny. Still, the gratitude in their eyes made me realize that even the smallest act of kindness can make a huge difference. I remember there was this young woman I spoke with one day who had just gotten out of a tough situation. She told me how hard it had been and that eating a warm meal and making friends at the shelter made her really happy. She thanked me, and we played a game of UNO together before my family and I left. As an adult, when I look back on that time, I realize that when I served her and others that day, I wasn’t just helping her—I was serving Jesus. “…when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” I often forget how connected our actions are to our faith. It’s easy to think of helping others as a good deed, but Jesus shows us that it’s much more profound. When I serve someone, whether handing out food or just listening to them, I do it for Jesus. It’s a way of loving God by loving others. It makes me think about how to do more, whether at a shelter or in my everyday life. I love that this passage reminds us that serving others doesn’t have to be this big, grand thing. It can be as simple as sharing a meal or offering a kind word. But in those small moments, we get to reflect God’s love in the world. And whenever I help someone, I feel a little closer to God. I hope this passage encourages you, like it did me, to be more aware of the needs around us and to see the face of Jesus in the people we encounter. Jesus calls us to care for one another and show his love in all that we do. It’s a simple truth that can change how we live our lives if we take it seriously. By Laura Gulley |
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