thirsty

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 […]

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finding common ground

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 […]

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who is your competition

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 […]

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A brief lesson in listening to hearts

Jesus talks to Nicodemus. He talks about light and darkness and evil. He points to a Moses story. He scolds Nicodemus for not understanding, for being “Israel’s teacher” and not understanding. Jesus talks to a woman getting water. He talks about water and thirst and living water and hope.  She points to a Jacob story. […]

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Jesus did not celebrate Lent

But he did fast. He did go away from people. He did pray. He did devote himself to service. He did endure hardship and rejection. He did give up everything. Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. Today I give you two gifts: 1. This passage from Psalm 130 I wait for the LORD, […]

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