3rd WEEK OF LENT (A) : Sunday 8th March 2026

The kindness that others do for us is often soon forgotten, while the grudges and resentments we harbour towards others can last forever. God had freed the Israelites from bondage, humiliated the Egyptians, led them through the sea, and provided for them in the desert. But now they were thirsty and there was no water to be found. They immediately accused God of tricking them and meaning to harm or kill them. Once again, God came through – he commanded Moses to strike the rock, and when he did, water gushed out. When we face adversity, we find what we are made of. People of faith weather the storm, while those who have none usually do not. Faith is how we connect with the power of God, and God always intends good for us.

Using riddles, metaphors, and prophecies, Jesus demonstrated to the Samaritan woman that he was here to unleash a different flow of water – living water – which is the Spirit of God. This flowing water will revivify the soul, give new life, and open up the mind and the heart to the presence of God. This living water is received through faith, which is openness of mind and heart, and willingness to change. It is offered each day but seldom accepted. Let us strike the rock of our stony hearts and allow the living water to fill us. May the words of the Lord soften our hearts, and make us pliant to His will.

PRAYER : Lord, open my heart to receive your Spirit.