Read: John 4:1-14

Reflect: Giant Springs State Park is located just outside Great Falls, MT. The park itself is a beautiful place to picnic, walk, or just enjoy the outdoors. The best part, however is the water. Giant Springs is one of the largest freshwater springs in the United States. Every day, approximately 156 million gallons of water flow up out of the rocks before making a 200 ft. journey to the Missouri River. The water is crystal clear, warm enough to sustain water plants year-round, and the sound of its flow brings a sense of peacefulness and calm.

In his encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, Jesus describes himself as being just such a source of abundance, peace, and life. The water he gives has the power to cleanse us from guilt and shame. He strengthens and sustains us through all the challenges and seasons of our lives. He renews us for life one hour, one day at a time. He speaks words of peace that can silence the world’s noise and calm our restless lives. The abundance of his love never runs dry.

Prayer: God our source, our hearts are restless until we find our rest in you. As Jesus once offered living water to a Samaritan woman at the well, so we ask you to meet our deepest needs with your eternal life. Help us to honestly name the desires that have power over us. Forgive us our injuries to self and other. Give us the strength we need to face each day. Direct our thoughts and actions toward the life that truly is life. This we ask through Christ our Lord. Amen. (from All Creation Sings, p. 53. ©2020 Augsburg Fortress, used by permission.)