That "Aha" Moment

Deacon Tom Writes,

“That Aha Moment”

Third Sunday of Lent, Year A 

(Optional – Scrutinies)

The gospel today is fascinating in many respects. Jesus has crossed over to Samaria, the land East of the Jordan, a place where Jews were not welcomed, to say the least. He stops to rest at a well and when a Samaritan woman comes to draw water, he asks her for a drink. This was unusual since it was not the custom of the day for men to engage in conversations with women, especially given the tension between Jew and Samaritan. Then there is the depth of the conversation. Here the story becomes remarkable!

Jesus and the woman share intimate truths about themselves. She is a sinner; Jesus is the Messiah. This encounter with Jesus changes this woman’s life forever, and that of her entire village. This simple woman, struggling with life and relationships, meets a complete stranger who turns her life around in a moment of truth. She has one of those “aha” moments, a time when she has deep insight into the mysteries of life and “she gets it.” During this brief encounter with Christ she comprehends that Jesus is the Messiah; grace has enlightens her mind. If you have ever had one of these experiences, you know the profound effect it can have on you and the rest of your life. The conversion of St. Paul comes to mind.

The story of the Samaritan Women is from the Third Sunday of Lent, Year A and is one of three optional reading proclaimed on the third, fourth, and fifth Sundays of Lent as part of the rite of scrutinies. These Rites are intended for the catechumens i.e., those who are to receive Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation and are celebrated by the entire community each year to remind us that we all can have an experience similar to that of the Samaritan Woman. Any and all of us can have an “aha” moment, a moment when we experience Jesus in the depth of our being, a point in time when we realize that our lives our empty without Him. This encounter may take place as we watch the beauty of a sunrise or sunset, during quiet reflection, or at a time when we feel lonely, isolated, and alone. We encounter Jesus at unexpected and sometimes inconvenient places. Most likely, we meet Him when and where we are most in need of Him, just like the woman at the well.

May the remainder of our Lenten journey provide us with many chances to deepen our relationship with Christ, many opportunities to have our own “aha” moments when we are able to meet Jesus and experience His forgiveness, gentleness, and His love.

Enjoy the Day,

Deacon Tom