On our spiritual journey, our Samaria is to pass through, not to stay in.

As they went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?" And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; and the eunuch no longer saw him, but went on his way rejoicing. (Acts 8:36-39)

Maybe you are among those who have thought that the statement “this too shall pass” is from the Bible.  Although the principle is throughout scripture, that specific phrase is not.  We do read, “and it came to pass” repeatedly and possibly see it only as the introduction of an event.  But, it is true, most everything passes.  The real challenge is to understand that not all moments demand our settling in but our readiness to minister and move on.  On our spiritual journey, we are to pass through, not to stay in, Samaria. 

Sometimes we pass quickly through our Samaria, other times, not so fast.  It can feel like we will be there forever or we can’t believe it’s over so soon.  At times, we cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel and we don’t understand why God has not delivered us and at other times we are wishing we could camp there.  We may feel like we have fulfilled God’s purpose for us in our Samaria and we should be moving on.  But it is possible that God may have one more purpose for us before we move on.  Be ready, willing and available because there may be a “God-Crossing” in your future.

A God Crossing
A “God Crossing” is a time you cross paths with someone due to circumstances or situations and come away with the amazing feeling that you know for certain that what just happened was a direct result of God’s hand in your life.  It is a sobering realization when God’s purpose is so very clear and direct; especially when you have passed through it before you realize what has happened. 

A “God Crossing” is when a servant of the Lord (that’s you) meets someone who is obviously (or not so obviously) demonstrating an interest in spiritual things.  God has a wonderful way of orchestrating these divine encounters.  We just need to be smart enough to recognize one.  If you have someone at your office or school who asks you something about Jesus, your faith, or your church, it could be that God has arranged this divine appointment.  He has arranged this rendezvous just for you to share your faith with someone.  Remember, the word “coincidence” is not in God’s vocabulary.

You never know when you are going to experience a “God Crossing”.  It can happen in line at the grocery store or at your child’s school.  It may not be a grand experience or a newsworthy event.  It may be mundane or an inconvenience for you. It may involve a friendship that you feel is draining; but through you God is reaching another. 

After realizing how imposing your “God Crossing” may appear, do you pack your bags and run the other direction?   Do you quickly excuse yourself by thinking others are more qualified or more deserving than you?  The thing about a God Crossing is that you have to be ready and willing to be used by God at any time.  Remember, He uses all kinds of vessels so there are no excuses.  He believes you are capable and acceptable for His purpose.  You can’t question the Creator of the universe!

As you are going through your Samaria, looking for the exit, seek reasons God still has you there.  Be open and available.  Be attentive to what is happening “in your way”.  Be ready and willing.  Don’t step over the obstacle before you without examining closely who put it in your path.  You may be at a “God Crossing”.

Learn From Your Experience

We can learn from what we remember but we must be willing to receive the lessons and not reject them.  You have heard the saying, That which does not kill us will make us stronger.  It is true.  We usually come away from hard experiences stronger and often wiser.  It is usually the challenging experiences in life that tech us the most; the ones that make the greatest impact on our lives. 

Recap

Think back.  How did you get to Samaria?  What ministry did God have for you there?  What “God-Crossings” came as a result of your Samaria? What can you take away that you can apply to your life now?  There is a reason for your journey.  Know the purpose and apply the knowledge accordingly

Scripture to Claim:
…but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;  (1 Peter 3:15)