Jesus invokes the image of water once again in his teaching. Earlier in John’s Gospel he shared the “living water” with the Samaritan woman whom he encountered at the well. This was a one on one conversation in a very relational context. However, this time, Jesus is at the temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. He went there and at first remained unseen. But then on the last day he stood and taught in a loud voice. The crowd there was hostile. Jesus again spoke of “living water” which he explained as the Spirit. Whoever believes in him, streams of living water will flow from within that person. The image is not a pool of stagnant water, but rather streams of fresh, flowing water. Imagine a mountain stream or brook. Imagine the sounds it makes as it flows. Imagine how it quenches our thirst. Imagine how its flow can carry us. Imagine its cleansing qualities. And this stream has a supply. It comes from deep within the earth. So too the Spirit of Christ dwells within those who believe and flows outward to others.

Grace and peace, Pastor Bob