In the fall of 2016 I sensed the Lord direct me to revisit the conversation that He had with the Samaritan woman at the well in John chapter 4.  While the disciples went into town to buy lunch, Jesus sat down to rest at the well.  Seizing the opportunity for a life-changing conversation, Jesus started by asking this woman for a drink then went on to promise living water that would satisfy her soul forever.  The disciples returned with the groceries, but all they could think about was how hungry they were and how Jesus was talking to someone unworthy of their attention, for in that time and place women were low on the social ladder – particularly Samaritan women.

This was one of those moments when God’s thinking and humanistic thinking clashed.  While the disciples said, “Let’s eat,” Jesus said, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.”  While the disciples overlooked this outsider, Jesus reached out.  While the disciples wanted to head back to their own people in Judea as quickly as possible, Jesus pointed to the fields around them that were ready for harvest.  As a result, a community was transformed!

It would be tempting to overlook the opportunities we have here and now, even with waves of immigrants coming to Canada looking for a better life.  We could feel threatened by new neighbours who are not like us or we could offer hospitality, friendship and respect.  Through our influence some can end up finding not just a better life, but eternal life.

As followers of Jesus, let’s pray that our government would have the wisdom and discernment to know who should settle in our great country.  As the church, let’s be the first to welcome these new residents.  Only the Lord knows the eternal impact we can make as we reach out with the love and Good News of Jesus Christ!

 

Allan Pole
President
Cooperative ESL Ministries