Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14).

Have you ever felt apprehensive about meeting new people? Maybe starting a new job or entering a new school or neighborhood? You might wonder, “What will they think of me?” or “Will we have anything to talk about?” Or, if we are honest, we might worry, “What if they don’t like me?” 

Imagine with me for a moment what it must have been like for this Samaritan woman in her context. She is coming to draw water in the heat of the day. Normally this is done when the sun is not blazing high in the sky (for obvious reasons). She was likely trying to avoid encountering other people. She probably wanted to grab her water and hurry back home. How lonely she must have felt. 

However, on this particular day she is going to learn that she does not have to feel alone. She will learn that she is seen and she is known.  She is seen and known by God, the Creator of all things. 

There were many culturally accepted (and even expected) reasons why Jesus would not interact with this woman. First of all, she was a Samaritan. Let’s just say that Jews and Samaritans didn’t exactly enjoy backyard BBQ’s together. Secondly, as a woman in this time and in this cultural setting, she was not an esteemed member of the community.

But on this day, the Man she encountered at the well isn’t just any Jewish man traveling through her village. What she is about to discover is that this is God Himself. Jesus, the One who sees and knows her better than she ever could have imagined. This also wasn’t a chance encounter.  Jesus knows she is tired and weary of carrying the burdens of life and trying to hide her shame. As only Jesus can do, in their brief encounter, He offers her hope and the chance to be forgiven and accepted. To belong.

No matter our past experiences or our current circumstances, Jesus offers to quench our deep thirst to be seen, to be known, to be welcomed, to belong. 

As we continue to journey through The Story of Jesus, allow these encounters with Jesus that we’re reading to become personal for you. Know that Jesus sees you and welcomes you. What are some ways you take time to reflect on the love Jesus has for you personally? Take a moment to thank Jesus for seeing you, for seeking you, and saving you!