‘But He Needed to Go’

But He needed to go through Samaria.

John 4:4

What compels Christ? We find before us a fascinating text. Christ was leaving Judea, where the common people were hearing Him gladly, and was returning to Galilee. Our text declares something, which, if we think much about it, causes us some wonder. ‘But He needed to go through Samaria.’  What would so compel Christ, that the Holy Spirit-inspired author of the Gospel would use such wording? The answer really lies in the rest of the story, which will, in the mercy of God, occupy our attention for the next few days. Certainly, we conclude that the Sovereign Plan of God compelled Him, to go through Samaria. He was ‘about His Father’s business,’ and doing those things which pleased Him. Also, there was a thirsty, needy soul awaiting, albeit she knew not what. There was, for Him, the compulsion to arrive at this Divine Appointment, and to engage her in conversation. He also, needed to reveal Himself as the Messiah to a most unlikely candidate.  He needed, as well, to both transform her life, and to send her to bear witness of Him to many souls. Today, let us dwell upon those things which compel Our Savior to reach out to us where we are.

Our Gracious and Loving Savior,
we rejoice that You condescend to those of us who are of low estate.
We praise You, that You seek us where we are
and accomplish your Divine Purpose by bringing us unto Yourself.

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning