Reflections on TruthSample

This Scripture is part of a story in the Gospel of John that has some interesting features. Firstly, Jesus is in a foreign country from a Jewish perspective, speaking to a non-Jew of a despised culture, and John sees the story as foundational enough to include it in his Gospel. This shows us that Jesus has concern for “the lost” despite the social and religious prejudices which surrounded him. Secondly, this woman is a superb example of someone who is spiritually hungry and aware of her spiritual need. She takes the opportunity that Jesus offers her in both hands, and then just as importantly, she is generous and shares the opportunity with those around her.

Different English translations can bring slightly different connotations of meaning. The NKJV and NIV have the word “spirit” in capitals which probably indicates a reference to the Holy Spirit, but interestingly they have placed them in different places. The NKJV acknowledges God as Spirit or the Holy Spirit as God, whereas the NIV does not put that emphasis through capitalisation. They reverse this process with “worship in Spirit and in truth” for the NIV which could suggest we worship through the Holy Spirit. While the NJKV could be translating the word pneuma as breath or wind both are very natural processes and sensory.

I think for me both those thoughts bring richness to the story being told. It would seem to be announcing the upcoming release of the Holy Spirit after Jesus’ death to all, even a sinful Samaritan woman. The other way of looking at it, suggests that worship to God followers is as natural as breathing or the sensory experience of the feeling of wind on our face. These concepts fit with the rest of the story as told because the woman’s question to Jesus was where she should we worship? On this hill, or was it right as the Jews said that you had to go to Jerusalem and follow ritual? This was his answer which speaks prophetically into the future, our future.

Prayer:

Today, Father, may our worship and prayer become as natural as our breath or the wind in our face through the Holy Spirit.