This is another one of those Bible scenes that I can picture so vividly in my mind. I’m not sure I’ve seen it re-enacted in a film, but you never know. Certainly, I’ve seen the players in similar scenes so I have a visual on what the robed Pharisees might look like, as well as the dress of the people. For me, the visual is an important means by which impressions are made and messages found to reflect on.
As I’ve read through the book of John this time with you, I’ve sensed a different boldness from Jesus than was portrayed in Mark (see my reflections). Here, knowing he has totally confused and amazed the people, he shouts again his invitation to “come and drink” to those who believe. The living water will be given by Jesus when the time is right and those who receive will feel it flow from within.
I know I’ve had that sensation Jesus is talking about when being inspired and filled with the Holy Spirit. I could definitely describe it as “flowing out from within.” It is the best feeling ever, and it could never truly be described. It is so overwhelming. If you’ve experienced that, share in the comments what it feels like for you.
The people are so stuck on geography, aren’t they? Apparently, because Jesus was “from” Galilee they assumed he couldn’t be the Messiah. Perhaps Jesus’ parents never shared the whole truth with their neighbors. The book of John does not talk about Jesus’ birthplace, only his hometown. This is generally assumed to be one and the same, but not for Jesus. His family was from Galilee, and that was enough. Jesus was from Galilee, too.
Again, the Messiah was standing right there in their midst and their blind eyes could not see. What a missed opportunity. Having been a church leader for many years, I know how special being in the presence of Jesus would be. I often imagine him physically sitting right beside me. Why? Because sometimes I just need that kind of comfort. But to have him really there and not see him would be devastating. I guess at the time you wouldn’t know you were missing out. But when the realization hits for these Jewish leaders, if it ever does, I’m sure they’ll have their regrets.
So what do we take away from this? Not to miss an opportunity. Not to take our faith for granted. So many things can surround us, busying us from our time with God. We have to be intentional to set aside the time we want to spend with God. How many hours I’ve missed over the years because I was busy. What was I thinking? Something like, I’ll have time another day. How can we not give God our best, our first, our every moment?
We don’t have to be sitting with the Bible in our lap to be spending time with God. We can be walking down the street or hiking in the woods. We can be singing a song to the radio or washing the dishes. Even sitting at a stoplight I have been known to strike up a conversation with God. Can you find more time for God?
Let’s pray. Lord forgive me when I look past you as I’m scurrying about. I treasure every moment with you and want to do a better job of stopping and being still. I want to hear your voice. Thank you for every blessing you have given me. May I not take you for granted. You are my king. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
