The Spirit of God calls us to His mission.
The 3rd Sunday of Lent encourages us to deepen our trust in God and take
courageous steps beyond our comfort zones. Last week, the focus was on
recognizing the Spirit, the voice of God; this week, it’s clearer than ever that the
Spirit of God calls us to build our trust and to confront challenges with faith.
In today’s first reading from the book of Exodus, God tells Moses, to lead the
elders of Israel with only the staff that once struck the river. God commands him
to, “Go over there in front of the people”. Horeb is more than a physical place; it
is a metaphor for fundamental moments in life when divine presence encounters
human uncertainty. When Moses strikes the rock, water flows to quench his
people’s thirst, a powerful testament to the profound connection between
obedience and trust. Despite the danger surrounding him, Moses says, “A little
more and they will stone me!” He acts not out of boldness alone but from deepseated trust in God and a mission of love for His people.
Today’s gospel highlights Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman. As
she comes to the well for water, she unknowingly is seeking something more
profound. Jesus, aware of her spiritual hunger, introduces the idea of “living
water,” which nourishes the soul’s thirst. This encounter changes her as she
absorbs Jesus’ message, revealing her secret struggles and the desire that led
her to solitude. The living water symbolizes the divine love Jesus offers to
everyone. Her transformation becomes a beacon of hope, prompting her to
return to her town and invite others to witness the truth.
These timeless stories continue to teach us valuable lessons today. Jesus
longs to quench the thirst of our souls with the living waters only He can provide.
It is essential to recognize the stagnant waters in our lives that may cause fear or
shame and push us away from God. The stories of Moses and the Samaritan
woman demonstrate how trust and obedience can lead to change. Moses,
despite the threat of violence, acts in faith. The Samaritan woman, despite her
past, steps boldly into her community. Both, moved beyond their fears to fulfill
the roles God had given them. By listening to the Spirit’s guidance, we can take
meaningful steps toward healing and strengthening our faith.
Dear brothers and sisters, Moses and the Samaritan woman exemplify the
power of trust and obedience. Despite their fears, they embraced the mission
God had given them. As Lent continues, may we seek the Spirit’s guidance and
answer the call to fulfill God’s will. Let us step beyond the safety of our daily
routines and allow the Spirit of God to work wonders through us.
Rev. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor