John 4:5-15

“The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?’ (Jews do not share things in common with Samaritans.)” vs. 9

The Jews and the Samaritans were of the same ethnic background, but the Samaritans had not been a part of the Babylonian exile. When the Jews returned to Jerusalem under Ezra and Nehemiah there were immediate tensions with the Samaritans. Those tensions continued through the next couple of centuries and came to a head when the Jews destroyed the Samaritan temple that had been on Mt. Gerizim. By the time of Jesus the two groups would have nothing to do with each other. 

Ethnic and religious boundaries still exist among us and they are exceptionally difficult to overcome. It seems we are much more comfortable in a homogenous community, and are quick to develop tribal antipathies, which regularly result in war or armed conflicts. Even when things are relatively peaceful we are acutely aware of our differences.

That Jesus was willing to ask for a drink from a Samaritan woman was extraordinary and in so doing, he set an example for his followers. We are called to embrace the “other” and put aside every kind of ethnic, racial, or religious difference. It’s an enormous challenge and our congregations struggle to present an inclusive presence to the world. Even when we are aware of the problem, we seem almost powerless to do anything about it!

Thought for the Day: Why is inclusiveness so difficult?