Volumes have been written about the things Jesus said to this woman. In particular, His comments about worshipping in spirit and in truth are considered foundational. But to fully appreciate Jesus’ compassionate understanding, we must give some thought to what He didn’t say. He didn’t enumerate her sins, lecture her for setting a bad example, ask for an explanation, demand an apology, or tell her she was going to Hell if she didn’t shape up. It’s hard to imagine a minister standing face-to-face with the biggest sinner in town -- a woman whose life would have made a great Jerry Springer episode -- and not even broaching the subject of morality, but that’s what Jesus did.
Why?
Because He understood that she’d been hammered enough. Nobody knew better than she did what a mess she’d made of her life. She lived with the consequences of her choices every day and slept with them every night. What she needed was not another rebuke, but a deep, refreshing drink of living water.
-- Mark Atteberry in “Free Refill: Coming Back for More of Jesus"
#4286
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for sharing your comments about a quote or about this ministry. Please include your name and what state or country you live in. If you do not have a registered profile, you can login using the "Anonymous" tag in the "Comment as:" box below.
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.