[Jesus] had to go through Samaria on the way [to Galilee]. Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime.
—John 4:4-6 NLT
Key Thought
Jesus took the “shortcut” between Judea in the south and Galilee in the north. He went through Samaria. He was tired from his journey. He rested by the historic site of Jacob’s well. So much history and promise come together in this moment. We expect something grand to happen. Jesus has come to the well dug by Father Israel. (Jacob’s name was changed to Israel. [1]) What great word do we hear from Jesus? What triumphant deed does he do? None. At least, not at first. Jesus’ primary initial action was simply to sit down. He was a weary Savior. He was tired. Sounds almost bizarre as our hearts exalt and hold Jesus in the highest of places. At the same time, something wondrous is once again revealed to us: Jesus became flesh. Human flesh. Mortal flesh. Wearying flesh. He knows us not only because he is God, but also because he was one of us whose feet got dirty, whose legs grew tired, and whose stomach growled when it was empty. Jesus is a Savior who knows us; he knows us not just because he is God, but also because he has lived in our world, sharing our burdens, and feeling our weariness.
[1] Genesis 32:22-28.
Today’s Prayer
Father, how can I thank you for making yourself so accessible to me through Jesus? Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice of becoming mortal for me. Your life in human flesh has given me even greater confidence that I can come to the throne room of heaven and receive mercy and grace to help me in my time of need. Thank you, LORD Jesus. I praise you, most holy and gracious Father. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
- John 19:28
- John 1:14
- Hebrews 2:11-18
Ⓒ 1996-2026 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
