Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well reveals the omniscience of Christ and His kindness toward sinners. Just as Jesus pointed out the woman’s sin, so, too, does the Holy Spirit reveal our sin to us today. The same kindness Jesus showed to the Samaritan woman is extended to those who trust in Him today.

Jesus chose to travel through Samaria on His route to Galilee. Jesus knew His time to suffer and die for sinners had not yet come and sought to avoid unnecessary confrontation with the Jews. Though most Jews avoided this path through Samaria, Jesus knew there were people in this region who needed forgiveness from sin.

Clashing against social norms of the day, such as a Jew addressing a Samaritan, Jesus asked the woman for water. He explained that if she knew the gift of God and recognized who He was, she would ask for and receive His gift of living water. Jesus said the water from the physical well in front of them wouldn’t be able to truly satisfy the thirsty, but those who drink His living water would never be thirsty again.

The woman wanted this living water. She wanted to never thirst again, and she desired to avoid constant trips to the well. Jesus’ words had piqued her curiosity. But Jesus knew she had an greater need than she realized: forgiveness of sin.

Jesus knew the sins of the woman and, by declaring Himself the Messiah, invited her to embrace Him as Savior. The glory of Jesus impacted the woman and led her to proclaim His power to the townspeople that day and invite others to consider if He was indeed the promised Messiah.

Pray that the Lord will reveal His power to the children in your care. Thank Him for the kindness and mercy He shows while we are still sinners and for His willingness to bring us into His family by faith.