As we left the story in John 4 last, the Samaritan women realized that Jesus was the Savior, the Messiah. With great passion, she left her water bucket behind and ran to tell everyone in the city. An unlikely missionary with a questionable voice; yet, God had sent her. She was a woman whose reputation forced her to go alone to draw water in the noonday sun. She was shunned by everyone and the one that all the town whispered about.
The disciples returned with food as the woman darted off. They wondered why Jesus had been talking to her; but, didn’t ask (as though they believed their thoughts were hidden from Christ). We know from the previous chapters that Jesus knew their hearts. He also knows our foolish questions, doubts, and fears. So, as they returned they encouraged Jesus to eat. Perhaps with a sense of pride and joy that they were returning with a gift for Jesus—the nourishment that He needed. Yet, His response once more puzzled them. Just like you and I so often are. They were focusing on the small picture—the here and now. Jesus was focused on the big picture—eternity. They offer Jesus the food and He replies, “I have meat to eat that ye know not of.” Well, they immediately begin to whisper among themselves, “Did someone else bring Him food?” Maybe what Jesus had was better? Maybe what the mystery person brought was better than what they had brought? Were they jealous? Were they disappointed? How often do we respond that same way to God? We bring in our tithes or we give up something and we stand waiting for God to pat us on the back and reward us. Have you ever done that? Then to find that God has a different plan?
Continue reading “Why Not Be Discouraged When You Are Planting?”