There is a rap tune played on the airwaves called “Pimp Juice” that certainly has the hip-hop crowd’s attention. It’s performed by St. Louis-bred rap sensation, Nelly. For some strange reason, it makes me think of Jesus’ encounter with the woman at the well (Jn. 4).
Remember when Jesus was “spitting game” at (talking to) her? Jesus initiated the conversation, which startled the woman because, as she puts it, “The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans” (Jn. 4:9). This is really interesting when you consider Jesus’ statement regarding salvation being “of the Jews” (Jn. 4:22).
I believe the woman’s concern was something the hip-hop crowd asks, “How can people who claim to know the way to God’s love not want anything to do with us?” Although the Samaritans had religion, it was different from that of the Jews partly due to the fact that the Samaritans were treated as though they could not participate with the Jews in their religion. Nevertheless, here is the Son of God simply communicating to this woman that she can Participate In My Master’s Plan (P.I.M.M.P.). He says to her that if she knew who she was talking to she would ask Him for some juice/water that would spring up into everlasting life (Jn. 4:14).
What made Jesus want to connect with this woman? It was a love in His heart that made Him share how her life could become more than just another day at the well. He communicated what the body of Christ needs to tell a dieing world, “God can take your life, pull it down, flip it, and reverse it.” That’s a contemporary way of saying, “He’ll pick you up, turn you around, and place your feet…”
Despite your background, you can participate in my Master’s plan of redemption. God has a plan that says to us, “I love you enough to accept you and cause your life to go to a whole new level”. If rejection, probation, addiction, sexual confusion, or depression plagues your background or the present moment in which you live, Jesus offers another lease on life. The Samaritan woman had been married five times, but Jesus conveys to her that her life, with God, can be different. Unsuccessful relationships can definitely result in a paralyzing sense of rejection and low self-esteem. This can cause some to question whether or not God will accept them.
If you want a new lease on life, let me suggest the following: like the Samaritan woman, talk with Jesus and learn what you can ask Him for (Jn. 4:10). Ask Him for forgiveness. Ask Him for another chance to live for Him. He can handle it and make life, as the hip-hop crowd would say, “Off da hizzle”. Secondly, be real and discuss your drama. The woman did this, but she left out some details (Jn. 4:17-18). Confession ushers in healing (Jas. 5:16) so be careful what you leave out. Thirdly, receive the water (juice) only He can give (Jn. 4:13-14), which is His Spirit. Finally, worship God on His terms (v.21-24).
The woman left her encounter with Jesus so excited she told others about it and they believed in Him. She goes back and connects with those who are probably still passing the Courvoisier and smoking the chronic so that they will commit to Christ. She doesn’t become too distant from others that she cannot be salt and light. She is now used of God to tell how Christ will accept you and cause life to become an awesome journey of worship and transformation. That’s good news! The Spirit of God, the water Jesus offers, makes a wonderful difference in living. Drink up.
Click here to listen to the sermon entitled P.I.M.M.P. Juice.