Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Courtesy in Conversation
John 4:5-19
A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her,'Give me a drink' (John 4 :7).
Our courteous conversations can win more hearts than our mighty speeches.
1. Jesus Dared: When Jesus met the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well in Sychar (vs 5-6), He started a polite and casual conversation with her. He knew that His people didn't engage with the Samaritans. He also knew that it wasn't common or approved of to be seen talking to a woman, especially one who led a sinful life. However, he still dared to speak to her and was careful to speak graciously. The manner of his conversation is what resulted in the story's outcome. His words were wise, his intent genuine and his statements non-judgmental, while at the same time being honest.
2. Jesus Cared: Although the interaction seemed casual at first, the real purpose of Jesus' conversation with the woman unfolds slowly. In the most captivating way Jesus makes the woman aware of her spiritual thirst. Even though Jesus was tired, He spoke because He truly cared for her —he used the opportunity to reveal the Messiah to her and through her to her community.
3. The Woman Shared: The quiet conversation with Jesus turned into an a-ha! moment for the Samaritan woman. The spark of change she experienced quickly turned into a passionate fire to make the Messiah known. "Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony (v 39).
Many people around us are troubled by cares and failures. We often tend to pass judgement and say the wrong things. We are bound to falter, but acknowledging our faults, seeking His help and making genuine amends will eventually make us better people and our ministry to the world more effective. Let us bring transformation in the lives of people by speaking as Jesus spoke
PRAYER
Our loving Lord, help our words and conversations to be seasoned with your grace, that we may be effective in making Your love known to all around us, Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Our conversations are an opportunity to relate to people.
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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