This semester in our TWEENS fifth-grade program we are working through the book of John, learning more about the life of Christ and what it means to live like Jesus. This week while reading through chapter 4, I was struck by a couple of thoughts as Jesus went out of his way to stop in Sychar specifically to have an encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well.
The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water?
Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”
Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:9-14
First, I love seeing how the Lord pursued her. Jesus did not have to go through Samaria, as most Jews would have gone around, but He pursued her. He knew that she would be at the well and was in desperate need of an encounter with the one who loved her endlessly despite her history. Jesus initiated the meeting, not the Samaritan woman who thought she was unworthy. Once again, He was seeking His beloved just as He continues to seek and pursue us.
The second thing I love about this story is that Jesus offered living water that will, in turn, lead to eternal life. This living water is a gift that can only be received, something that God gives us. Jim Branch, in his devotional book, A Season of Beholding, writes, “Our main job is to simply open ourselves up to its flow and then learn how to drink, which takes practice. Practice in making space and time for God, practice in reading Scriptures and praying the prayers, and practice in being still and silent.” May we rest in the presence of the One who sees us, who is pursuing us, and knows us. I pray that we will be aware and attentive to the Spirit drawing us closer to Him and begin to, or continue to, make space for knowing Him more.
If you are interested in discovering ways to have daily quiet time with the Lord, please feel free to reach out to any of the pastors and we would be happy to give suggestions.
Be blessed friends!
Tena Roher
Dude Camp Registration
Hey 5th Graders! Dude Camp is May 26-29 and registration opens for our church families this Sunday, February 4th, and next Sunday, February 11 before and after the worship services. The cost is $350 and covers all meals and travel fees. A registration link will be posted on February 13th on our website for community members to register their 5th graders. Contact Ms. Tena for more information.
Registration for Spring Connection is now open!
Come experience ministry in a cross-cultural community and see God’s action in the context of Coahuila, Mexico Friends Churches March 9-16. Spring Connection gives all participants a tremendous blessing as they plunge themselves right into the middle of God’s work! Registration closes on February 14th. Contact Katelyn for more information.
Valentine Luncheon
On Wednesday, February 14th, Mary Catherine Terrell will host a Valentine’s Luncheon for single ladies in our community. This luncheon is open to all ladies who are widowed, divorced, or never married and there is no cost involved. Mary Catherine doesn’t want to miss anyone, so if you know of a friend, neighbor, or family member who would be interested in receiving an invitation, please send their contact information to the church office by February 1st. Also, feel encouraged to contact the church office for more information on the Valentine’s Luncheon.
Making Disciples
Making Disciples is a mentor program that takes place in the spring for 5th graders. It is designed to explore the basics of Christianity, foster spiritual growth, and supply a foundation for a lifelong journey of faith. There is an informational meeting after the service this Sunday, February 4th. Contact Ms. Tena if you would like more information.
Easter Choir
We are excited to have Melissa Smith directing the choir again for an Easter Choir Performance on March 31. We hope all feel invited to join in singing with us. There will be three rehearsals, March 3, March 17, and March 24, all at 5:00 pm. Contact Bobby for more information.
Scuba VBS Save the Dates!
On July 8-12, kids ages 3 years old – 5th grade will take a deep dive into a friendship with God at Scuba VBS. Registration for VBS will open to church families before and after the worship service on February 25 and March 3. Community registration will open after Spring Break. This event serves our church and community and requires many volunteers to run smoothly. We appreciate you prayerfully considering how you can help serve this event. Be sure to save these dates and be looking for more information to come soon.
Shower Ministry
The Shower Ministry to the Homeless has been busy with the cold weather the last few weeks supplying warm clothing to those in need. There is currently a large demand for new or used men’s jeans and sweatpants. If you feel led to donate these items, they can be dropped off at the double doors outside the education building. We greatly appreciate your continued support of this ministry.
Family Promise Host Dates
The next Family Promise Host Week is February 4-11. It takes many volunteers to make the week a success. If you are interested in serving a meal or staying as an overnight host, please contact Beth Skeeter or Desiree Trevino. We are so grateful for how each of you serves to help make the families in the program feel welcome.
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18