John 4:9 Therefore the Samaritan woman said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman?" (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)
Obviously Jesus surprised her by His asking her for a drink. It wasn’t normal for a Jew to cross the social and religious divide between Jews and Samaritans. It shouldn’t surprise us, however, because we know that’s what the love of God does—no divide is too great for His love to overcome.
First, I remind you of my favorite definition of the God’s love. It is the sustained direction of the will toward the highest good of another, no matter what the cost, in the power of the Holy Spirit, for the glory of God. Now, let’s think about the power of the love of God revealed in Christ. He chooses to cross whatever barrier is in the way in order to love someone. Love doesn’t let race, gender, ethnicity, intellectual, economic, cultural, or religious differences hinder its expression. We might ask a similar question when we think about God reaching out to us. How can You, being infinite God, ask me for help when I am a finite sinner? Or, how can You who is perfect in righteousness have anything to do with me who is so imperfect and unrighteous? We will consider Jesus’ answer tomorrow, but today, let’s be encouraged to not let anything hinder our expressing the love of God to others.
Would you join me in praying with me what I call the Live to Love with Jesus prayer? Father in heaven, thank You for another day of life to know and love You and to live to love with Jesus. Anoint and fill us with the Holy Spirit, the presence and power of Christ, so that we can love and trust You, and love those You put in our paths today, for Your glory. Amen.
I invite you to become a partner in our ministry. Would you pray about becoming a regular supporter of Elijah Ministries and the Live to Love with Jesus ministry? I hope you will receive the joy and benefit of “giving it forward,” so others may receive encouragement to turn their hearts to God and to live to love with Jesus. You may give online or send a check to the address listed at www.spiritofelijah.com/donate.
