John 4:19-26
Underwater archaeologists do an amazing job of restoring ancient items found in the ocean. Many of these items are found heavily encrusted with minerals and the shells of undersea animals. One non-descript lump, when tediously restored, revealed a golden brooch with a large sparkling ruby at its center. A priceless treasure found hidden in a seemingly worthless mass.
Worship can become like that when submerged in vast oceans of historical and cultural practices. The Jews had worshiped in Jerusalem for over a thousand years by Jesus’ time. The Samaritans claimed to be the “true Israelites” worshipping on Mount Gerizim since the days of Joshua. Year after year their traditions covered layer by layer over the simplicity and beauty of true worship.
Jesus explained to the woman at the well that the location of worship was not the most important thing. Those forms of worship would pass away. Worshipping our heavenly Father “in the Spirit and in truth” was the hidden jewel beneath their worship wars. It still is.
Author: Duane Brush