Daily Reading
Daily Reflection
In the ancient Mid East, water made the difference between life and death. At this festival, the priests poured out water in the temple to display their faith in God's provision and pray for the next harvest. They prayed for rain and for resurrection—water and new life. Jesus knows that those who hear him need more than a day's supply of water or even enough for a season's crops. They need life that never ends. He uses this opportunity to invite anyone who thirsts to come and receive living water. Have you ever experienced periods of "spiritual" drought that seems endless? There's seemingly no refreshment in prayer, in belief? We get stuck going through the motions, repeating the words, but not hearing the soaring music that once surprised and energized us. We long for more life, for living water but it seems to be only for others.
But Jesus' offer isn't a temporary one time slacking of thirst; rather following the cross and his subsequent resurrection and ascension he sends the Spirit who will continually give life—living and ever running water.
Suggested Prayer: Lord, open my eyes to who you really are and help me hear your voice, not the static in the tapes filling my head. Help me set aside what I think I know about myself, others, and you. Give me an open heart and a whole new experience.
Daily Worship Resources
Morning Readings: Psalm 81 > | Genesis 29:1-14 >
Evening Readings: 1 Corinthians 10:1-4 >
Other Resources
Read Introduction to the Lent Tradition >
Download pdf of entire Lent devotion >