Samaria
Acts 1:1-11

Samaria. It wasn’t really the place, it was the people. Orthodox Jews viewed them as an impure mix of Jewish and pagan blood. They were religious mongrels and ethnic half-breeds. The prejudice was real; the hatred palpable.

While others took the long way around Samaria, Jesus had to go through Samaria. (John 4:4) He had an appointment with a Samaritan woman at a well. She didn’t know it, but the Jewish Messiah was about to change her life presently and eternally.

And now, before he ascends to the Father, Jesus tells his disciples:

“You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (emphasis added)

That day at the well was a lesson for them. And for us.

The Gospel is neither regional nor racial. It is for everyone everywhere. Both sides of the track. Rich and poor. Every shade of red, yellow, black, and white. We are all precious in his sight.