Living Out JusticeSample

Acting justly and sharing the gospel

‘“Come, see a man who told me everything I’ve ever done. Could this be the Messiah?”’ (John 4:29, NIV)

Reflect:

How do you feel about the Lord knowing everything you’ve ever done?

On the one hand, it makes confession less daunting. On the other hand, it is incredibly humbling. Maybe we feel like there is some safety in the shadows.

In John 4, Jesus shared with a woman who was weighed down by shame. As Jesus revealed his divine and intimate knowledge of her past and present circumstances, she slowly understood that he was embracing her in love and faith. Before the disciples returned, Jesus explained that he is the One that people had been looking for. This news filled her with enthusiasm: leaving her water jar, she ran back to her village to tell everyone to come and meet the Messiah!

Once confined to life in the margins, one transformative encounter with Jesus meant that she was no longer ashamed.

We imagine that the story was far from finished for the woman, but, in Scripture, the narrative stops here. We are left with a number of questions, such as did the villagers get to speak with Jesus and how did the village change because of this woman’s encounter?

Daily Action:

Shame is a powerful, debilitating force. It can prevent people from seeking help and from being who God created them to be.

Millions of people around the world have learnt to manage their addictions through recovery groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. For people who have been previously bound by shame, these groups provide spaces where people can be open, honest and vulnerable, sharing their stories without fear of judgement.

Is this not what church should be?

Jesus wants to be in a relationship with each of us. He wants us to bring our authentic selves to him. Drawing close to Jesus sets us free and, like the Samaritan woman, we are compelled to share this goodness with those around us.

Jesus didn’t dismiss the Samaritan woman’s experiences or shame her. He acknowledged her past with grace and shared the truth of who he was. Could you and your church be that place of shameless love and acceptance in your community?

Prayer:

Lord, I am so amazed that you are in my life and that you know me completely. Thank you for your love that covers all shame. Help me to share this love and communicate my passion for you with all I meet.

Inhale: Lord, let me share your goodness.

Exhale: May it bring others joy and freedom.