Sunday of the Samaritan Woman
Photini, the Samaritan woman thought she had truth because her people worshipped on Mt. Gerizim and lived near the Well of Jacob.
However, God’s promise to bring salvation to all nations doesn’t come through a well, nor does it come through a temple in Jerusalem as the Judeans thought.
Instead, to Photini’s surprise, God’s promise to make us all his children is realized through the Word, Jesus Christ.
For Photini, the well had become an idol, and, only when she was able let go of her ego asserting that she was “right” and that God works through the proclamation of his Word rather than historical landmarks, was she transformed.
Only then was she able to drink the “water” that Christ had to offer and worship in “truth and spirit.”
Scripture: John 4:5-42 (Click here to read)
Bottom Line: When we relinquish our idols and our egos, the truth of God is revealed.
Discussion Questions
- To the Judeans, the Samaritans were despised and hated outsiders. However, Christ had compassion for them and welcomed them to be a part of God’s people. Who are the “outsiders” in our society? How can you extend God’s love as Jesus extended love to Photini?
- Originally, Photini was concerned about who was “right.” But, come to find out, it’s not about who is right, but how we follow Christ. God is the Father of all peoples and he’s present through the Word, the proclamation of the gospel. What idols do you need to let go of so that you also can worship in “truth and spirit?”
- Since God is the Father of all nations, we are called to go out and baptize and tell everyone about Christ, as Photini did. How can you spread the gospel this week to those around you?
- Christ said the true food is to obey the will of God and finish the work he gave to him. What work has God given you to do? How will you go about it this week?
Moving Forward
For the Samaritans, the well of Jacob had become an idol. And, for the Judeans, the Temple in Jerusalem had become their idol.
Sometimes, as Orthodox Christians, we too make idols out of religion, politics, culture, or technology.
Instead of leading us to God, they become the end all and be all of our lives.
How can you break away from these idols this week and be fed with the true food that comes from Jesus?
Changing Your Mind
“‘My food’, replied Jesus, ‘is to do the will of the one who sent me, and to finish his work!'” (John 4:34)
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