Engaging With the Marginalized
Jesus knew the Pharisees had heard that He was baptizing and making more disciples than John (though Jesus Himself didn’t baptize them - His disciples did). So He left Judea and returned to Galilee. He had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually He came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Please give me a drink.” He was alone at the time because His disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?” John 4:1-9 (read through verse 26 for the full story)
Most of us, even those of us who identify as followers of Christ, tend to gravitate toward familiar faces and comfortable interactions and spaces in our daily lives. Yet, the story of Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4 serves as what should be an overwhelming reminder of our calling to engage with those who are different, outcasted, and marginalized.
Jesus' decision to pass through Samaria, a region avoided by Jews due to longstanding animosity, sets the stage for an extraordinary encounter and creates space for the transformative power of the Gospel. At Jacob’s well, Jesus meets a Samaritan woman. Their conversation breaks the societal norms of avoidance based on gender, ethnicity, status, and moral background.
Jesus’ journey to the well was no accident. It shows His intentional pursuit of those who we often overlook. He strikes up a conversation with a simple request for water, and in doing so, shatters social barriers and hindrances. Jesus’ approach invites us to step out of our comfort zones and engage with individuals who might be different from us or deemed “lesser” by society.
Now Jesus can begin breaking down the barriers and hindrances between the woman and God.
The woman is initially taken aback by Jesus' approach, saying, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" Jesus' willingness to engage with her in meaningful discussion reveals His recognition of her worth and dignity.
Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman challenges us to meet people where they are, without prejudice. He acknowledges her past but does not condemn her. Instead, He offers hope and a path to redemption.
In our ministry and daily interactions, we are called to reflect this example by seeking out and engaging with those who are marginalized. Whether it’s through a kind word, a listening ear, or a shared meal, we can extend Christ’s love and compassion to everyone, especially those who feel outcasted or different.
When we serve those in need, as we reflect on the story of the woman at the well, let’s be inspired to break down the barriers that divide us and reach out to those who are different from us. With some intentional and compassionate engagement, we can share Jesus and invite others into the transformative experience of His love and grace.
