It was given to Jesus that His disciples would baptize more than John’s disciples did. John the Baptizer’s knowledge of this moment is covered in John 3:25-27 & 30. Both of them knew that Jesus’ influence would increase and John’s would decrease. The stage was being set. The transition between John and Jesus is similar to the transition between Moses and Joshua. We should expect such transitions in our lives, as well. But let’s get back to the story in John 4.
Jesus was not dependent on updates from earthly citizens. (John 4:1-2) He was forever in tune with God’s Kingdom agenda as His Father narrated it to Him. If we back up the cameras of our imagination and slowly reread John’s Gospel, we realize that this wonderful scene began playing out on Sound Stages beyond where Jesus was physically present in verse 1.
In another location called Sychar, a city of Samaria, a multi-times married woman is reluctantly heading to Jacob’s well. The set up by the Author and Finisher of her life is racing to a timely climax. Jesus had strategically dismissed His disciples. He is alone and waiting.
Unassumingly, the woman arrives. Jesus, weary but excited, is waiting for her. The Woman at the Well will in this same day kick off the first evangelistic crusade! Presently it’s late afternoon. The lighting is perfect and the Stage is set. Places please! But wait.
While there is much to learn from their conversation, there is also much to learn from a God who desires to set us up for such moments. The intersection of the lives of Christ and the woman reveals much about our Heavenly Father. If we allow it, we will conclude that He desires to orchestrate our comings and goings as well. We just need to listen and follow.
For example, when we believe and pray a verse like Proverbs 3:5-6, we may find ourselves on pre-scheduled interactions that He has orchestrated in His timing for our coming and going.
TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND LEAN NOT ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING; IN ALL YOUR WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM, AND HE SHALL DIRECT YOUR PATHS. Proverbs 3:5-6
It’s at such junctures of life that we experience pinch me moments! His blueprint for our lives bulges with expected destinations and events planned thousands of years ago just for us.
If we are willing to be at rest (as Jesus was that day) we should expect encounters of the God kind every day. Rest and you’ll discover that you are made for this. Resting is key. Willingly rest and wait for His direction. Put weariness in its place and tune in His Rest and peace as in: “Cast your cares on Him and He will give you rest. Take His yoke upon you and learn of Him!”
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