Water is a natural resource necessary to maintain life and wells are openings in the ground of the earth.  Natural water, such as, rivers, streams, and springs are referred to as "living water" because these bodies of water have movement in them as if they have a life of their own.  When we observe the movement of a flowing river, we can see it moving with such vigor that it moves as though it is on a mission.  It is this kind of natural - moving - "living water" that the Samaritan woman perceived Jesus as offering (John 4).  

During biblical times, the journey to the well was made each morning and evening in an effort to keep the water supply restored.  Because the journey was long and laborious with heavy pots full of water, cities and towns were built near wells to facilitate better travel.  A brim or low wall made of rocks or stones was often built around the well to keep dirt and other foreign objects from getting into the well.  As a protective measure, shepherds placed a large flat stone over the opening of the well.   This was the kind of well upon which Jesus sat when he met and talked with the woman from Samaria.  When it was time to draw water from the well, the shepherds gathered together to remove the heavy stone from the mouth of the well.   To draw water, a bucket or jar was lowered into the well with a rope. 

The encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well demonstrates the benefits of engaging in meaningful conversation about our needs and vulnerabilities.  Through honest dialogue about their identity, experiences, and faith, the Samaritan woman and Jesus  acknowledged their common, yet different needs or thirsts.  Jesus' request of the woman for a drink of water (living water) to quench his physical thirst led to the Samaritan woman recognizing her need for a drink of water (Living Water) from Jesus to quench her spiritual thirst.    

Like the shepherds who removed the large flat stone from the opening of the well so that others could gain access to the living water, Jesus was the Good Shepherd who gave the Samaritan woman access to the Living Water contained deep within The Well. 

May we always hear the invitation to come to The Well.

Come...Be well...Be whole!