This story is a mirror of our experience. How often do we play the Samaritan woman, defensive before others and before our Lord, fearful of what is in our past and what is in our hearts, unwilling to reveal ourselves freely, even to the One who offers us living water. How often do we create for ourselves a lonely isolation that stems from shame, self-criticism, and pain.

In one sense it is terrifying to realize that our hearts are indeed open to God, that God knows our secrets, our embarrassment, our shame, and our dirt. Yet, in another sense, this knowledge is wonderful, a gift of grace that lifts a heavy burden. No secrets can be hid from God. We don't need to pretend to be who we are not. Before God, our hearts are laid open, the worst is made plain, and still God considers us worthy to meet the Messiah and receive forgiveness in Christ.-USK