Another Word from John 4

In yesterday's devotional, we saw how Jesus chose to strike up a conversation with someone he might've been expected to avoid. And as a result, a Samaritan woman found in Jesus the source of Living Water. Now, if you know the rest of that story, this woman went back into town and told people about her encounter with Jesus. And they, too, came to believe. And so it was -- that in a most unexpected place -- God's kingdom came a little more fully into the world.

Of course, Jesus' disciples -- who were often a little slow on the uptake -- got caught up in the trivialities of their daily life and ministry. And Jesus had to tell them, "Open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together." (4:35-36) And I can't help but wonder: What the ways that we need to open our eyes? Do we look around and see kingdom potential? Or do we allow ourselves to caught up in the wrong things - and therefore miss what God is doing around us?

Years ago, I used to listen to the music of a group called The Imperials. And one of their songs said this:

See the fields, ripe and white as snow.

Up from the seeds of faith we planted long ago.

So many the hearts in season, with every prayer they've grown.

He has made them ready, but we must bring them home.

Lord of the harvest, place your fire in me.

Servants you need now. A servant I will be!

Give me the eyes your Spirit, your heart of compassion to know.

Lord of the harvest, show me where to go. 

(The Imperials, "Lord of the Harvest," by Fred Hammond, Noel Hall, and Kim Rutherford)

So, may we see the fields today. And may we be filled with the joy of The Sower, as we work with Him to bring His harvest home. Amen.