Day 82 - Water of Life, Fellowship, and Hospitality

John 4:14 (NIV): "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."

An eerie silence hung over the village, like damp mist. This blanket of calm silenced the dawn chorus, joggers pounding footsteps, and the geriatric early risers. Then a flash of light caught my eye and shattered me back to reality. Beneath the flash, I recognized a standpipe. But why do you have a sign above standpipe? The sign read, “– “This is the site of the tap which was the source of fresh water for residents living in the lower end of the street until the 1950s.” My parents often spoke of street corner standpipes during the summer of 76, so is this a vision of things to come in 2025? Anyway, the 1950s is not too long ago, and certainly living memory for some Congregationalists. Can you imagine the scenes? Folk walking down the street, bucket(s) in hand. Waiting their turn whilst chatting to friends and neighbours, before struggling up the hill with water filled bucket(s). This was the human side of life.

You may think this was a rural backwater, where horse and cart were as common as Haywain’s in the fields. However, the railway arrived in the 1850s and opened a station less than 0.5 miles away from the village. And this was a proper station with a station master’s house, goods yard, and double track. Prosperity had arrived but the benefits were not enjoyed by all.

Can you see the similarities between the rural water tap queue and the hustle and bustle experienced by Jesus at the well. A place where folk would also gather to draw water, socialize, and discuss issues of the day. So, when Jesus asked the Samaritan woman for water, this public act would have been witnessed by others. This was not the first time Jesus linked his message with Samaritans - remember the parable of the good Samaritan? So, this simple gesture took on a profound symbolism. Can you imagine the gossip? “Jesus is talking to her,” one lady whispers. Another replies, “yes, and with her history, she’s no better than she should be.” And yet, Jesus not only takes the time to listen to this lady, but he also talks to her and explains how his spring of water brings eternal life. Drink from the spiritual fountain, and keep drinking, so you will never suffer spiritual thirst again.

We often focus on spiritual interpretation, New Testament Greek and possibly Aramaic, whilst overlooking simple truths. Our church (God’s house) can be a place of loving spiritual warmth and a social hub. Like the well and standpipe, we can share followship with others. We should become like a community centre, or village hall, where locals feel welcome, supported and loved. Open your church doors and let them in, so friends, neighbours and others we don’t know feel welcome, and ready to hear more of the water of life.

Prayer – Father, please help us to not only open our hearts and minds but your church doors too. May we welcome both the curious and needy to our supporting fellowship. Amen

Michael Rolton