Water troubles

So the drought is over, and we can use our hose pipes again! 

Most of us would prefer a bit of regular sunshine, and some warmth, though the grass and weeds are doing very well. And while there may be more water around, the work on repairing damaged sewers and water mains has caused traffic chaos in Maybury and elsewhere.

All this reminds us of our essential dependence on water - for drinking, washing, flushing, and so much else. 

Without water, there can be no life. The chemistry of life is water-based, so everything dies when there is no water.

So it is not surprising that Jesus speaks of 'living water'. 

'Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” (John 4.10) For Jews, 'living water' was running water as opposed to stagnant and foul water. 

But Jesus is meaning more than just an endless supply of drinking water, so he says, 'those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” (John 4.13)

In a later story, Jesus returns to the water image. 'On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds,“Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’” (When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.)' (John 7.37-39)

Today, while we live and work amongst people who are thirsty for the true life, we can be filled to overflowing with the life of Jesus, as we seek to live for His glory. Then their water troubles will be over!

Best wishes,

Richard