We’re still in the story of the Samaritan woman at the well. When Jesus shows her that He knows all about her, He doesn’t condemn her, but encourages her. He praises her in saying that she is “right” and spoken what is “true.”

Jesus shows that He has not come for the righteous, but the sinner. He’s not seeking out other religious leaders. He’s seeking seekers. Nicodemus was seeking. So was this woman.

What we say shows what’s in our hearts. The Samaritan woman reveals her heart and shows us why she got this privilege of talking with Jesus.

The first thing she says is about her concern over where to worship. She doesn’t ask a question. She shows a frustration. Maybe there’s a struggle in her, maybe a struggle with doubt over whether or not her worship is accepted by God. She wanted to worship God. Was she doing it right?

Jesus says there’s not a right place of worship, but a right spirit of worship. God is seeking worshipers. He desires worshipers who worship in spirit and in truth.

I can really struggle with singing worship songs at church. I am often changing lyrics. I want to sing what is true. I fight to keep my focus on the Lord and honor Him. Modern worship music can be written for our enjoyment, with the congregation in mind, instead of written for the Lord’s enjoyment. I want to please God with my worship, not myself.

This Samaritan woman must be a real worshiper. It seems she was a true seeker, one looking for the Messiah. She must be wondering if this could be the one. He says that He is.

Jesus’ disciples can’t believe He’s even talking with a woman. They offer Jesus food, but He doesn’t need it, even if He’s weary from His travel. His food is obeying God’s will. He’s about to receive probably extravagant hospitality from the Samaritans. He stays for two days.