Home > Reading > NALC Lenten Devotion – March 13, 2017

Monday of the Week of Lent II

Today’s readings: Jeremiah 1:11-19; Romans 1:1-15; John 4:27-42

Many Samaritans from that city believed in Jesus because of the woman’s testimony…So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. And many more believed because of his word. They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world” (John 4:39-42).

Our passage today is the conclusion of the account of Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well, whom Jesus offered the Living Water. The woman was so moved by her experience that she testified to others about Jesus. First, they believed because of her testimony—but then, after being with Jesus, they heard and believed for themselves.

After Jesus’ resurrection, before His ascension, He commissions us to “go therefore and make disciples,” (Matthew 28:19) and he also sends us saying, “You will be my witnesses…” (Acts 1:8) We may not understand ourselves as “worthy” to go and make disciples, let alone to be His witnesses. And yet, do you know the Samaritan woman? Married five times, now living with a man outside of wedlock. Still, many come to believe because of her testimony.

Witnessing to Jesus is not arguing theology or quoting Scripture. It’s also not telling people “about” Jesus. Witnessing is sharing our own experience of the Lord. How has God been active in your life? How does God speak to you through His Word? What does Jesus’ presence in the Lord’s Supper mean to you in your day to day life? This is what we are called to share, so that others come to know and believe Jesus!

Prayer: Jesus, I will be your witness. Send your Spirit to me, that I may have the words you want me to speak when given the opportunity. Amen.

Lenten Response: How would you share your experience of God’s activity in your life? Jot down three sentences on a 3 x 5 card so that you are ready to share.

Today’s devotion was written by the Rev. Dr. David M. Wendel, Assistant to the Bishop for Ministry and Ecumenism.

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Video of each day’s devotion is available here. The 2017 Lenten Devotional, based on Year I of the LBW and written by Pastor David Wendel, is available for download/printing in two formats and as a daily text/email message.

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