Are we quietly, lovingly, curious about why our neighbors are acting strangely/outside of the established norms? No one goes to the water wells at noon, except outcasts, vagrants, ne'er do wells... The obvious question isn't always the right approach, nor will it yield the correct results.
'Jesus acknowledged the Samaritan woman's short-comings and ministered to her and her community without condemning her. "The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true." John 4:18' (-Vern N.)
This is an important section of scripture, one we as Christians must master in order to reach the world with impact. The approach is seen earlier in the story (vss. 4-8) when He arrives at Jacob's well near noon. A woman approaches the well during the hottest time of day. Perhaps Jesus, with loving curiosity, asked within Himself why she was here at this time...
Breaking with protocol (Jewish man speaking to Samaritan woman), Jesus stated a fact revealed by the Holy Spirit without a condescending or judgmental attitude, and in doing so, made way for the truth.
As Christians, God will allow us in our various conditions to come across an opportunity to speak for Him. We may even have to break protocol/social convention, but if we keep ourselves out of the way, and open ourselves to a state of Spirit-led loving curiosity, expectantly asking within ourselves questions only God can answer, He will share with us fantastic things for His glory.
When we share the truth which God reveals with His love and wisdom, people will be set free and seek the Source. 'The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty..." '(Joh 4:15 NET.)
Thanks to Vern Nicholson who stirred up this line of thought by providing the quote above.
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