Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Commemoration of Thomas Cranmer
Reading: John 4:5-42
“Jacob’s
well was there, and Jesus, tired out by his journey, was sitting by the
well.” John 4:6
Sitting by the well, Jesus speaks to the woman of Samaria
about “living water” or “running water” according to the writer of John, who
frequently uses double or triple meanings. In one icon of this story the well
is shaped like a Greek cross: the living water flows from faith. In an early
Christian mosaic, it is shaped like an eight-sided baptismal font: the well of
living water is baptism. In one catacomb painting, Jesus himself stands in the
well: Christ is the living water. German theologian Oscar Cullman argues that
this story was intended to continue Nicodemus’ discussion with Jesus about
being born anew (or “from above,” – another double meaning!). Which is it?
Perhaps the answer is, “yes.” The power of story is that we can enter it from
many different directions, many different levels. Each person can enter and
find meaning at different points in life.
So - another story: The disciples asked the master, “Why do
you tell us stories and stories and do not tell us what they mean?” The master
replied, “How would you like it if I offered you a piece of fruit and chewed it
first?”
God of
life, lead us always to the flowing water where we will find life. Amen
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