Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work.” (John 4:34 NAS95)
The journey tired both Jesus and the disciples, so Jesus sat at the well to rest. The disciples wandered off for food. When they returned, they saw Jesus energized and engaged in conversation with a Samaritan woman. While they considered this a bit odd (actually contrary to culture), they didn’t say anything. When they showed up, though, she left to return to her city. So at that moment they offered Jesus some of the food they’d just purchased. Jesus’ comment caught them by surprise. Jesus indicated He already had food. They knew He hadn’t eaten so that seemed a bit odd. Yet, it was quite surprising to have seen Him so animated in the conversation with the woman, especially after the long journey they’d had. Where’d He get all that energy?
Jesus knew they didn't understand His reference to food. So He clarified. He shared that He thrived on His Father's will. For Him that was true food because it energized Him. In fact, His reason for going through Samaria had come from a conversation He had had with His Father, or at least that's what the text implies (John 4:4). Jesus' communion with God guided even this journey. It provided the reason for going through Samaria. What happened blew the disciples' mind. Jesus was already jumping for joy because not just the woman believed, but now the whole town was coming to Jesus. A simple conversation with His Father with the appropriate response, because Jesus listened, provided the way for a multitude of people to believe in the Messiah. Jesus simply focused on His Father's heart and desires. Amazing things happen when prayer opens the way to see God's will realized. It's like food. It energizes.
For Reflection:
“Praise the LORD! How blessed is the man who fears the LORD, Who greatly delights in His commandments.” (Psalms 112:1 NAS95)
- What are the times through prayer you’ve heard and done what you sensed God asking? What was that experience like?
- What is God saying to you when you experience delight in doing His will?
