There is a deeper meaning to Jesus’ words, “[W]hoever drinks of the water.” For this gift that God gives (John 4:10) also bridges the separation of nations and religions. It becomes clear when He says, “You worship what you do not know” (John 4:22), and in verses 34 and 35 – that he was sent to do his Father’s will and complete his work and then also refers to the fields ripe for harvest. When the Samaritans then say in John 4:42, “[W]e know that this man really is the Saviour of the world,” it is confirmed that “this water” is meant not only for the Jews, but also for the Samaritans – for all.

 

Whoever drinks “this water”, which gives eternal life, will experience it as a perpetual bubbling fountain in his/her spirit (John 4:14), which through the work of the Holy Spirit will also be like streams of living water flowing from within to others. (cf John 7:38-39)

 

This promise and blessed outcomes of his Spirit were already announced in the Old Testament: “For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground. I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.” (Isaiah 44:3; cf Isaiah 32:15; 58:11-12 and Joel 2:28)

 

God requires a response from everyone who is spiritually thirsty. (cf Isaiah 55:1) Then he gives back infinitely more, which can flow to all who are willing to drink from “this water”.

 

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for your living water. Please let it flow through and from within me too. Amen.