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Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
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Exodus 17:3-7
Psalm 94
Romans 5:1-2,5-8
John 4:5-42
Lent is a time when our faith is tested and like the people of Israel we may ask ourselves, "Is God with us, or not?" In the first reading we read that faced with great difficulties, the people of Israel complained against Moses who in turn appealed to God. The abundance of water which consequently flowed from the rock demonstrated that God was with his people.
Water is also the theme of today's Gospel reading. Jesus, sitting by Jacob's well in Samaria, claims to the Samaritan woman that he can give her living water which will well up to eternal life. The patriarch Jacob was associated with continuously flowing wells and the Jewish tradition is steeped in symbolism of living waters, rich in meaning in a country dry and arid for much of the year. When Jesus is crucified and exalted as Christ or Messiah he will become the source of water bringing life to those who have faith in him.
Paul's letter to the Romans speaks of the peace which comes from the knowledge that God is with us whatever our troubles. We have a hope in life which will not be disappointed, and the confidence that he will lead us by the hand.
When you read the passage from the book of Exodus, can you identify with the people of Israel? Has your faith ever been tested? Paul speaks of the peace that comes with knowing that God is with us whatever our difficulties. Do you experience that peace?
When you read this week's Gospel imagine you are having a conversation with Jesus at the well. What do you say to him? What does he say to you?