An Eternal Perspective
Jesus’ encounter with the woman from the city of Samaria on His journey from Judea as He sat wearied from travel, gives a clear picture and sets a model of restoration and second chance. Jesus sat by Jacob’s well and asked for a drink from the woman from Samaria. As recorded in the Gospel, according to John 4, Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband and come here.”
The woman answered and said, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You have correctly said, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; this you have said truly.” (John 4:16-18 NASB1995) Without an iota of condemnation it seems Jesus empowered her by revealing Himself to her, revealing the condition of her heart and then offered her that which she was longing for, “living water” (John 4:10) and to worship God “in spirit and truth.” (John 4:24).
These actions of Jesus compelled the Samaritan woman to preach about Christ. John’s Gospel states, “From that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all the things that I have done.” (John 4:39)
How can my thoughts, words and actions bring restoration and second chance to one who already feels disqualified or unworthy?
Experiencing disappointments, being told “you do not belong here,” “we do not want you.” These are real, complex human experiences. I have had my share of these experiences. As difficult, hurtful and devastating as these experiences are, I have contended to not lose sight of God’s purposes. Esther Perel, a Belgian psychologist of Polish-Jewish descent said, “Everyone has a relationship history.” However, this relational history can be altered by understanding how to “straddle the needs for connection and freedom.” I argue that the connection to the Body of Christ (where living water flows) and freedom to worship God “in spirit and truth” is critical in the restoration of many who have passed through the flame of rejection.
In relationships, one must have an eternal perspective. What I mean by an eternal perspective is knowing that we are eternal beings. Therefore our relationships are as such. So then, how shall I conduct myself in relationships with eternal perspective? How could I relate with a brother or sister who is hurting or who I have hurt?
Jesus is our model for restoration and second chances.
About the author: Andrew Adudu is a much-loved friend of All Nations International serving his family and community in Kansas City, Mo. U.S.
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