The Bible contains stories of ordinary people having extraordinary encounters with God. The Samaritan Woman was one of those ordinary people Jesus goes out of his way to meet her greatest need with his Living Water. But this story has some amazing parallels to it that demonstrate how much Jesus willingly goes out of his way to care for the ordinary person in extraordinary ways. (Gareth Goossen, August 29, 2022) 

Jesus and his disciples are travelling to Jerusalem when they encounter a group of ten lepers. They are all healed but only one responds with saving faith. What the pious and privileged believe is their right, the outcast gratefully receives. What can we learn about the role of praise and thanksgiving from this Samaritan leper? (Adam Knowles August 22, 2022) 

Obed-Edom is a little-known ordinary person in the Old Testament who is prepared to be the right person in the right place at the right time. When the symbol of God’s presence comes to his house for an extended stay, his actions and attitude lead to blessing. (Shawn Branton - August 14, 2022)

Throughout the story of scripture, we see countless individuals who struggle with their faith: ordinary people who have doubts about God, faith, and who Jesus was. This gives us new perspective when it comes to handling our own doubts. We can face them head on, trusting that God can build our faith stronger through the skepticism. (Brad Sherk - August 7, 2022)

You are invited to come and see. It does not deny that there is mystery or unknown, but it allows people the opportunity for the personal encounter with Jesus, which can be transformational. (Derek Klumpenhouwer - July 31, 2022)

God brings ordinary people together to accomplish His extraordinary story of redemption. In the letter to the Romans, we see that people aren’t noted for their status or accomplishments but thanked for their commitment and contribution to the gospel of Jesus. God continues His redemptive activity in the world through regular, everyday people who come together and continued to surrender their lives to following Jesus. (Michelle Knowles, July 24, 2022)

Zacchaeus gave up his wealth for the poor, he made restitution for the wrong he had done, and saw salvation come to his household. He allowed Jesus into his life and was willingly transformed, joining Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost. (Greg Reed - July 17, 2022)

Simon Peter was an ordinary blue-collar guy who was working in the family trade as a fisherman. He was called by Jesus to give up everything and follow Him. Peter took this call seriously, but not without its bumps in the road. Peter is a great example of how repentance and action can lead to God using you for great things. (Jeff MacLeod - July 10, 2022)

People of great faith are ordinary people who are unrelenting in their faith in God. What if Jesus calling this woman’s faith “great” is not because of its quantity but rather because of its intensity? Its unrelenting, immovable, and steadfast trust of God’s Word and will despite the obstacles. (Shawn Branton - July 3, 2022)

God’s people are sent with a mission and it is so far beyond what any of us are capable of by ourselves. A life that began in faith must be continued the same way and this is found in a life of active, unrelenting prayer. It is also prayer that opens doors to the gospel, bringing about hope, renewal and changed lives.