Art tells a story. Will it be the same story the artist originally intended? That is questionable. A good artist can direct the viewer, but without them being present...much is left to the viewer. They will glean from the provided information within the context of the work. However, it is the viewer's connection with the work, the information that it provides, how it impacts & relates to their personal experiences, and perceptions that will imbue it with meaning. When the art becomes personal...that is when the viewer relates to the story, and it takes on meaning and power.
Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. And because of his words many more became believers. They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”
John 4: 39-42
The full story about the Samaritan woman at the well can be found in John 4: 1-42. It provides such a beautiful snapshot of the Lord's heart for people. A million sermons could be preached (and probably have been) just from the interaction between Jesus and the Samaritan woman. However, I'm struck by the interaction we see between the Samaritan woman and the other Samaritans that came after hearing her story. She had a story to share....and she shared it. Those that listened believed in part because of what she shared with them. It at least piqued their interest enough for them to go see & hear for themselves. Then they said to her, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world." Her story was powerful. Her story was meaningful. Her story moved them to action. Still though...they had to experience it for themselves. It had to become meaningful to them. There is power in a story, but the transformation comes when story becomes yours.
Do you have a story to share? God can use it. He can use your story to encourage, challenge, and bring others to Himself. What is your story?
It's a story worth sharing!
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