Stephan Hoffman

On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, ‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.’  John 7:37-38 (NIV)

Jesus' own brothers and the Pharisees did not believe that he was sent by God. The Pharisees wanted to kill him because they were upset by his teaching. Jesus went in secret to the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles, but on the last day he taught people openly in the temple proclaiming the words of verse 37 aloud. Yet no one arrested him, because his time had not yet come.

God is still in control, though it seemed as if the Roman soldiers and the Jewish Pharisees or Scribes had the authority.  It is God who is carrying out his plan according to his will. The new "time" would dawn soon. Jesus is the turning point in the history of humankind. His death and resurrection would usher in the new time and totally change the course of history.

The promise of living water that flows from within you refers to the Holy Spirit according to John. The Spirit which later was poured out on to the believers is the source of life that no one can take from you. The Holy Spirit is the One who in the most arid and difficult circumstances strengthens and encourages you, so that you can boldly proclaim that Jesus lives.

Come, let us go anew, without fear to the world and tell everyone who this Jesus really is. Even if we experience the consequences of rejection and humiliation, his Spirit will inspire and lead us.

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you are the source of true life. Thank you that your love also flows through my life. Help me to live close to you, and lead me by your Spirit to boldly witness to your greatness and love. Amen