Immeasurable Gifts
Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.”
“But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? And besides, do you think you’re greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?”
Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. 14 But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.”
“Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.” John 4:10-15
Last week, our youngest daughter celebrated her 21st birthday —a milestone that fills us with immense pride. Her journey has not been without challenges, but watching her grow into a strong, independent woman has been truly remarkable. She has faced obstacles head-on and emerged capable and resilient. To commemorate her achievements and the incredible perseverance she has shown, we chose a special gift that reflects just how much we love and appreciate her presence in our lives
This gave me pause to focus on how God sees us and our growth. God has gifted us with an amazing relationship that we share with Him. It is nothing that we did for it, and it is reasonable to say we have done little to earn it. However, it is there, and we are thankful for it. Or are we? Do we appreciate the gift of life God has given us?
The story of the woman at the well reflects how many of us experience our relationship with Christ. While we recognize His presence, do we truly comprehend the magnitude of His provision? Do we often question how He will meet our needs in times of trouble? Am I, at times, like Jacob, thinking I can provide for those around me and equate myself with Christ in my own way?
It is moments like these that challenge me. Sometimes, I celebrate my connection with Christ, but other times, I take it for granted. Sadly, there are days when I face life's challenges without centering my focus on Him. As a father, I shoulder the burdens of my oldest daughter and her family's struggles. The stress from my job adds to this weight, and as my wife and I approach retirement, I worry if we have saved enough to maintain our lifestyle.
While many share these worries, it is important to remember that others face even greater hardships. Living without a home, struggling to find income in their later years, or surviving day to day without the basic necessities. When I consider this, I realize just how abundantly God has blessed my family. Yet, His material provisions are not His greatest gift. His grace, extended to me so that I may even have this conversation, is worth far more than anything I can imagine.
These gifts are never to be taken for granted for. We take comfort in knowing there is someone greater than us, whom we give allegiance to: Jesus Christ. He gave His life so we could receive blessings beyond our imagination or deserving. In expressing my gratitude, let us with deep humility acknowledge God's boundless grace and His unwavering provision. How different should our relationship with God be understanding what we have been graciously given? What prayer in submittance and appreciation can we give fully acknowledging My prayer is may we always remember the immeasurable gift of His love and the eternal life He offers.