“On the last day of the feast, the greatest day, Jesus stood up and shouted out, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. Just as the scripture says, ‘From within him will flow rivers of living water.’” (Now he said this about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were going to receive, for the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.)” John 7:37-39 NLT
Almighty and most merciful God,
We have all known thirst, though maybe not the same as those who walk miles to find only muddy water. Jesus is attending the last day of the festival of Tabernacles and He knew all the Old testament celebrations. Everyone was gathered to celebrate and give thanks for You, God, providing daily manna (bread) and water in Moses day in the wilderness. And to remember the tabernacle was a symbol of You being in their midst as a nation. Now we see Your Son, who earlier claimed to be the bread of heaven, saying He is also the water of life and in the midst of them! More than just a tabernacle, the Word made flesh. You God dwelling among them.
On that day, I have read, Your priests would carry water from the pool of Siloam, circle the altar seven times then and pour the precious water out. Reciting Psalm 118:25, “Lord, save us! Lord, grant us success!” Praying for the day when their deliverer would come. They were looking for a great King and warrior to arise and set them free.
They did not see the humble King, the one who would pour out His life to conquer death and sin and set us free. But as the priests poured out the water, Jesus clearly spoke of what was to come and John faithfully records it in His memory to write it later in his gospel.
Water gives life. Your Holy Spirit brings eternal life and cleansing. You ensure we never need thirst again for Your presence, life, love and guidance.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
God of life,
For our family, extended family, friends, neighbours.
For unbelieving members hearts to be refreshed by Your Spirit.
For our Ministers, lay leaders, church members. Sunday school teachers.
For our king and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For Gaza, Middle East, solutions for peace for all.
For Ukraine. Send a miracle, an end to war.
For USA amid political decisions and debates.
For the new children’s Malaria vaccines being trialled successfully in Africa.
For those who dig wells and put water purification systems in villages.
For those who set modern day slaves free and help rehabilitate them.
For appreciation of running water, clean water and Your refreshment and cleansing.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Saturday 20th July 2024
Let Your living water flow over my soul
Let your Holy Spirit come and take control
Of every situation that has troubled my mind
All my cares and burdens on to you I roll
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Sing to the Father
Father, Father, Father
Holy Spirit
Spirit, Spirit, Spirit
Come now Holy Spirit and take control
Hold me in your loving arms and make me whole
Wipe away all doubt and fear and take my pride
Draw me to your love and keep me by your side
Give your life to Jesus, let Him fill your soul
Let Him take you in His arms and make you whole
As you give your life to Him, He’ll set you free
You will live and reign with Him eternally
Let your living water flow over my soul
Let your Holy spirit come and take control
Of every situation that has troubled my mind
All my cares and burdens onto you I roll
Lyrics and tune: John Watson