Starter: (In pairs)
Describe the best drink you have ever tasted. Why did you enjoy it so much?
Worship:
Use verses from Psalm 42 to get in touch with our deep thirst for God.
Read Both Gospel Passage Aloud.
You might choose to identify with the intense physical thirst of the Israelites in the exodus passage and the deep spiritual thirst which the Samaritan woman identified in herself as she spoke with Jesus.
Personal Focus (Personal reflection on the passages, commentary and questions.)
Commentary:
Out in the wilderness the people of Israel were well aware of their needs, but they were looking back nostalgically, rather than trustingly at the living God to supply them, which is, of course, an all too human reaction. The gospel passage reinforces the truth that we tend to try all kinds of inferior, stagnant or temporary water supplies rather than going straight to the source of living water which never runs dry. This life-giving water is guaranteed pure and wholesome for us and is exactly what we need at every changing moment of our journey through life. Jesus, through his loving acceptance of the Samaritan woman, enabled her to identify her thirst and showed her how, even her past could be redeemed through this water of life.
Personal Focus Questions(Initially just reflect on the question that chooses you. It may help to write down some thoughts in the spaces provided. )
1. Which verse in these readings speaks to you?
What is God saying to you?
2. When did you have (or not have) the courage to go the extra mile?
3. Relate a time when you did someone wrong.
Were they able to turn the other cheek?
How does it make you feel?
Were they unable to turn the other cheek?
How does it make you feel?
What changes have these experiences made to you?
(When you have reflected alone, share what you are able together in threes.)
Life Focus
1. Imagine you could implement a new law or reinstate an old law for your church community
What would it be?
How would it help people in the discipleship?
2. Loving those who have done wrong (Mt 5:44) can be very hard.
In the news we hear about how parents find it hard if a convicted paedophile (or other criminal)
is sent to live in their area so they can be rehabilitated into society.
How would you feel if one became your neighbour?
How would you show love to them?
3. What plans should we make as a result of our reflection?
Review Time
Recall anything from previous weeks which needs attention.
Prayer Time
Tear out of a newspaper some headlines or stories where there has been hurt & place them on the floor around a cross. Use this as a focus for prayer of reconciliation and forgiveness.
