Today’s Reading: John 4:39-45
Hearing God’s Voice for Today:
“They said to the woman, ‘It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.’”
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Jesus spent two days in Samaria. During this time, the woman whom he had met at the well told all her friends about him. They came in large numbers to hear him teach eternal realities. After hearing about Jesus’ identity, they came to know him personally as their Lord and Savior. They understood his earthly mission. They believed in him, and he forgave their sins.
At that moment, Jesus’ earthly disciples were able to receive a glimpse of the worldwide harvest that would come after his death and resurrection. He had come to die for the sins of all people in the world—even the Samaritans.
That was difficult for his disciples to understand. The Jews despised the Samaritans. They thought them unworthy of God’s love and acceptance.
But when Jesus’ disciples saw that he loved the hated Samaritans, they began to comprehend that his love was for everyone in the world. They came to realize that God’s forgiving love was to be extended to everyone everywhere, for all need a Savior.
How about you? Do you know Jesus as your personal Savior? Do you know of his extraordinary grace, mercy, and forgiveness for you? Do you know that he doesn’t despise you? Do you know how valuable and priceless you are in his sight?
If so, you know that he doesn’t see you as guilty anymore. You aren’t filthy anymore. He’s not angry with you. He is your personal Savior. He has saved you from your sins and forgiven you. He has given you eternal life—solely by his grace. He has placed his boundless love in your heart.
Jesus came to this earth to seek and save the lost—including despised Samaritans—and all who are lost and aimlessly wandering without hope. And people like you.
Receive his love anew today. He will satisfy all your deepest longings within you. He will heal your hurts. He will rest in you forever. He will carry your burdens. You will never face anything without his eternal power and presence with you.
Believe today that Jesus is for you. He is on your side. He doesn’t remember your sins anymore. You should never feel condemnation. His grace is sufficient for you.
In your weakness, Jesus is strong. Through him, you can do anything because he indwells you and gives you the strength to face it.
He is your Savior.
That’s the best news you will ever hear.
[from “Hearing the Voice of God” by Pastor David Chadwick, Moments of Hope Church, Charlotte, NC]