As I reflect on our ongoing series, "Make a Difference," I’m reminded of the countless times I’ve felt called to step out of my own comfort zone. Each time, God has shown me the incredible ways He can work through us when we invite others to experience the transformative power of the Gospel. With National Back to Church Sunday approaching on September 15, I want to take a moment to share a powerful story from Scripture that has challenged me—and I hope it challenges you too—to embrace the uncomfortable for the sake of the Gospel.
Make a Difference
The Call to Make a Difference
This week, during our 10:04 service, I encouraged each of us to think deeply about who we can invite to church. This isn’t about filling more seats; it’s about something far greater—giving people the chance to hear the life-changing message of the Gospel. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or even someone you’ve just met, I truly believe that the Holy Spirit will guide us in making these invitations.
Avoiding the Uncomfortable
I want to ask you a question: Have you ever gone out of your way to avoid someone or something uncomfortable? I know I have. In my sermon, I shared a story about how I used to avoid certain roads or people at the grocery store. It’s easy to sidestep discomfort, isn’t it? But this behavior mirrors that of the Jews in Jesus’ time, who would take a longer route just to avoid passing through Samaria.
Understanding Samaria
In Acts 1:8, Jesus calls us to be His witnesses not only in Jerusalem and Judea but also in Samaria and to the ends of the earth. Last week, we focused on reaching the ends of the earth. This week, however, our attention turns to Samaria—a place Jews of Jesus' time avoided due to deep-seated animosity and cultural differences. Yet, Jesus calls us to go to those places we might instinctively avoid.
Jesus and the Samaritan Woman
Why Did Jesus Go Through Samaria?
In John 4, we see Jesus on His way from Judea to Galilee, and He “had to go through Samaria.” This wasn’t because there were no other routes; it was a divine appointment. Jesus chose to go through Samaria, knowing He would meet a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. This encounter wasn’t by accident, and it’s a powerful reminder that God often leads us into uncomfortable situations for a greater purpose.
The Encounter at the Well
I’m struck by the simplicity of Jesus’ request for a drink of water. In that moment, He breaks cultural and religious barriers, asking for help from a Samaritan woman—something that was simply not done. The woman is shocked, and rightly so, because Jews didn’t associate with Samaritans. But Jesus uses this moment to reveal a deeper truth about living water and eternal life.
The Woman's Transformation
As I reflect on this story, I’m reminded of how Jesus didn’t shy away from addressing the woman’s past. Initially, she didn’t understand His offer of living water. But as Jesus speaks to her deepest needs, revealing her past with compassion and truth, she begins to see Him for who He truly is—the Messiah. Her transformation is immediate, and she can’t keep the good news to herself; she rushes to share her encounter with her community.
Cultural and Religious Divides
The historical, cultural, and religious divides between Jews and Samaritans were significant. Yet, Jesus didn’t let these barriers stop Him. Instead, He engaged with the Samaritan woman, showing us that the Gospel transcends all divides. As I reflect on this, I’m challenged to consider the barriers in my own life that I need to overcome to share the Gospel more effectively.
Addressing Personal Brokenness
One of the most powerful aspects of this story is how Jesus addresses the woman’s brokenness. He doesn’t ignore it or shy away from it. Instead, He brings it to light with such grace that it becomes a path to her healing and wholeness. This challenges me to consider how I, too, can address the brokenness in my life and in the lives of others, not with judgment, but with the same grace and love that Jesus showed.
The Power of Testimony
The Samaritan woman’s testimony leads many in her town to believe in Jesus. Her willingness to share her story, despite her past, is a testament to the power of personal testimony in spreading the Gospel. It’s a reminder to me—and I hope to you as well—that our stories, no matter how messy, can be used by God to reach others.
Life Application
Embrace the Uncomfortable
Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman challenges me, and I hope it challenges you, to step out of our comfort zones. Who are the “Samaritans” in your life? Are there people or situations you avoid because they’re uncomfortable or challenging? I encourage you to reflect on this and ask God to give you the courage to embrace those uncomfortable situations for the sake of the Gospel.
Share Your Story
Like the Samaritan woman, each of us has a story to tell. Your story has the power to impact others in ways you may never know. Don’t be afraid to share how Jesus has transformed your life, even if it means addressing painful or uncomfortable parts of your past. I believe that God can use your testimony to make a difference in someone else’s life.
Questions for Reflection
1. Who is the Holy Spirit leading you to invite to 10:04 on September 15?
2. What uncomfortable situations or relationships are you avoiding that could be opportunities to share the Gospel?
3. How can you use your personal testimony to make a difference in someone else’s life this week?
Conclusion
Jesus’ journey through Samaria and His encounter with the Samaritan woman teaches us the importance of embracing the uncomfortable for the sake of the Gospel. As we prepare for National Back to Church Sunday, let’s be intentional about inviting others to 10:04 and sharing our stories. This week, I challenge you—and I challenge myself—to step out of our comfort zones and make a difference in someone’s life.
In His service,
Pastor John Joiner
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