Performing true Humility!

“You are a Jew,” said the woman. “How can You ask for a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.). John 4:9

In John 4, Jesus speaks to a Samaritan woman, which would have been considered highly taboo in that period. By engaging with her, Jesus demonstrates his true humility, which is putting others before himself. This encounter also allows the woman to come to faith in Jesus. Through his actions, Jesus shows us that true humility is about more than just words; it’s about how we treat others and what we do for them.

Of course, one would be surprised at what kind of shocking statement the above would be if there were no understanding of what had transpired between the two tribes earlier on, and it could be dated to after Assyria had conquered the northern kingdom of Israel in 722 BC and deported most of its people, a mixed multitude inhabited Samaria. This includes Israelites who were left behind after deportation and foreigners relocated to the region from other parts of the Assyrian empire.

Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.”

These people intermarried, and thus a distinctly Israelite identity in Samaria was lost, forming the name Samaritans. However, the Jews took them to be defiled and inferior to them because of that, and there was mutual hostility based on ethnic, religious, and political barriers. When Jesus, in his humility, humbled himself as the King of Jews, ignoring culture and traditions to speak with a Samaritan woman, little wonder she was surprised. This interaction is significant because it shows Jesus’ humility by speaking to her.

Jesus demonstrates that he is not afraid to cross social boundaries and talk to someone considered beneath him. So likewise, humble yourself to reach out to those less fortunate than you. This will display your willingness to expand and connect, regardless of your social status. Remember, true humility is practicalized in the kingdom of God when one of high esteem brings him or herself down to minister to the needs of others. You too can do the same. Amen. Proverbs 22:4 says, “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches, honor, and life.”

Prayer
1. Thank you, Jesus, for being the light that lightens my darkness.
2. Dear Lord, help me to be a channel through which humility is displayed and to live a life that transforms human relationships.
3. Psalm 35:6; Lord, let Your Angels chase away my little stubborn enemies such as hatred, anger, pride, envy, jealousy, and greed now in Jesus’ name. Amen