Lent is inappropriately linked with sin and therefore with disempowerment. Lent is actually an experience of empowerment as the Lenten Sunday Gospel readings show. The Gospel from the First Sunday of Lent begins with Jesus being led into the desert by the Spirit. He is being empowered for his coming public ministry. The Gospel from the Second Sunday of Lent shows Jesus’ Transfiguration and is further evidence of empowerment. Both Jesus and disciples who join Him in public ministry are empowered. The Gospel from this Third Sunday of Lent is about the Samaritan woman at the well and yet again shows divine empowerment.
The woman in the story is thought a sinner and therefore is thought to be disempowered. She is at the well in the mid-day sun possibly indicating an outcast status. She is unable to relate or move about as she might determine. There is nothing about disempowerment however in Jesus’ way of relating with her. The opposite is true. Jesus realistically accepts the Samaritan woman. He accepts her for who she is and not who he judges she should be. He distinguishes between her essential goodness and any inessential failings. Being centered on people’s essentially good and gifted nature, and being wise and realistic about their gifts, results in Jesus nurturing into discipleship persons otherwise marginalized and disempowered. The Samaritan woman is feeling genuinely amazed as a result of her encounter with Jesus. She is empowered by the kindness and truth she receives from him.
Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman makes His metaphor of living water a reality. He relates as a refreshing and renewing power. Receiving that love, the Samaritan woman in turn becomes powerful living water flowing out to others. We too can be that same genuine river of love flowing between people.
Prayer: Water of love, everyone I encounter is living water flowing out.
Question: How do I let Love refresh and renew me; how do I in turn refresh and renew others?
March 23, 2014 Gospel John 4:5-42 Third Sunday of Lent