A “giving up 200 words for Lent” post A woman told Jesus she wasn’t married. He agreed and described her marriage history: five husbands, living with a sixth man. She was impressed with his abilities to describe her life. She started a theology conversation. Eventually she said, “When the Messiah comes, he’ll explain what to […]

Jesus asks for a drink An unnamed woman can’t believe he’s asking. Jesus says, “If you knew more about me, you’d be asking me for a drink. Of living water.” She says, in order, You have nothing to draw water with. The well is deep. Where is living water? Are you better than Jacob, our […]

Jesus was heading to Galilee, to home. He was heading away from Jerusalem, away from controversy with religious people. In the process, he walked right into the middle of religious controversy. He had to go through Samaria. Samaritans were regarded by Jews as half-breeds, as spiritual wanna-bes. Jews were regarded by Samaritans as uppity, as […]

John had a niche. He was “the rough looking baptizing” guy. Everyone knew who he was. He had lots of business. (Apparently, many people had to repent.) Suddenly, there was competition. Jesus and his disciples started baptizing nearby. John’s disciples came to him and started to complain. “Rabbi,” they said. “That guy you were talking […]