INTRODUCTION

Jesus Talks With the Samaritan Woman

Bible Point

Jesus loves everyone.

Key Verse

“Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life” (1 John 5:12).

Big Picture

Show love to others like Jesus did, regardless of social status.

Jesus Talks With the Samaritan Woman

John 4:5-42

Everyone know what it feels like to be left out of a group. Cliques can be hurtful, and there are often people who feel like they do not belong. This week, we will learn that Jesus loves everyone and offers care and acceptance to all. As we go through these devotionals, we can think about how to follow that example by including others and showing kindness to everyone.

PLANTING THE SEED

One day Jesus and his disciples were traveling through Samaria. The disciples went into a nearby town to get food while Jesus sat down by a well. When a Samaritan woman came to get water, Jesus asked her for a drink. She was surprised, because... well...the Jews didn’t exactly get along with the Samaritans. There was deep hatred and division between the two groups. And here was Jesus, asking for a drink. Jesus went on to explain that he could offer her living water that leads to eternal life. The woman was so excited that she ran to the town to tell everyone about Jesus. And lots of Samaritans came to believe in Jesus! (John 4:5-42)

• Share about someone you know who’s treated like a Samaritan. How can you help that person?

• How can you help others see Jesus’ love?

• What does this Bible event teach you about judging others versus loving others?

FAMILY FUN

As a family, talk about the differences between open hands and closed hands. Have everyone close their hand in a fist. Ask: What does a closed hand (or fist) communicate to others? What can a closed hand receive from others? Now, open hands. Ask: What do open hands communicate to others? What can open hands receive from others? Talk about how your family can be the open hands of Jesus this week for each other. Then when you observe someone being kind or offering a helping hand, give that family member a “high five.”

READY, SET, GROW!

• Instead of a Daily Challenge this week, think of a person in your life who really needs to experience the love of Jesus this week. And then think of a way for you to show Jesus’ love to that person.