The Israelites - like many people - were great complainers. On their journey across the desert, they murmured against God and accused Moses of bringing them into the desert to die. God never failed them or let them down, but that made little impression on them. The bitterness and contention in their hearts was their downfall, as they are for us. God finally commanded Moses to strike the rock. When he did, water gushed forth. But before long, they were complaining again. We need to be both grateful and trusting in our journey. We can always count on God.

Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well in riddles and symbols. He offered her the living water that would never leave her thirsty again. As with most people, she took everything literally, but water symbolised the spirit of God. Finally, He assured her that a new order had arrived: God would now be worshipped in Spirit and in truth. In other words, Jesus offered direct access to God the Father for those who dwelt in the Spirit and in Him. Jesus offers us this living water - are we willing to drink?