The story of Jesus meeting the woman at the well is one of the longest passages we get in the Revised Common Lectionary. It is also one of the most engaging.
Like other stories with multiple characters, we have several ways into it. So chances are, we find a lot to connect with. Obviously with the woman and with Jesus. Then the short bit with the disciples make them sympathetic figures, too. Even the townspeople are a way in.
The Well is an interesting character
For some, the well itself may be the most alluring. It has a story and a history. It tells of the time before. Before Samaria and Judea were hostile to one another. When they were one family. Together.
I find that some people are far more attached to things, places, and histories than they are to any of the people who inhabit them or congregate there. Perhaps you know some of these same people!
There is also something safe about attaching to the building or an object. Something that, unlike a person, doesn’t grow or change or get mad and leave.
Story
Among all of these interesting characters, however, is a story told in a few parts.
- A story of Jesus and his disciples taking the short cut through Samaria and Jesus going on ahead and lounging at a well.
- Of Jesus having an elicit conversation with a woman. Taboo in multiple ways.
- The woman feels shamed and seen and known. And then, in a way, empowered.
- The disciples get antsy and the crowds pay witness.
- And Jesus invites them to stay awhile. Because there is something happening here.
The story, for all of its back-and-forth, is more than a conversation. And more than a bit of evangelism. It has a way of inviting us into solidarity and community and intimacy with a whole crowd of people who don’t really know each other. Who think they’re supposed to avoid each other. Think that God wants them to hate.
And, instead, they learn.
Here are some ways I approach this text:
Reflection
Reflection on “harvest”
in-between Lent 2A & 3A
video