Day 36: If You Knew the Gift of God

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A grace revealed, a response required.

During my prayer hour today, I found myself drawn into a moment from John 4, when Jesus speaks to the woman at the well: “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink…”

My old spiritual mentor, Father Thomas, used to teach that when a word or phrase in Scripture stands out, we should reread the same verse or word multiple times. Instead of moving on, we should stay there, reflect, and let God reveal what He wants us to see.

The woman at the well did not know the gift of God, and she did not recognize who was standing before her. Because of that, she continued to search and to be thirsty, living in a way that kept her hidden. She came to the well at noon, the hottest time of the day, when no one else would be there. It was not convenience that brought her there at that hour, but shame. She avoided others and carried her story alone.

And yet, that is exactly where Jesus met her, not when everything was in order, but in her shame, the place where she was hiding.

The women we encounter are like the woman at the well. Many are carrying wounds, confusion, and deep shame, and they are being told things that are simply not true. They are told that what they carry is just a “pregnancy,” as if changing the language can change reality. They hear phrases like “a clump of cells,” “an interruption of pregnancy,” or are told to expect only “slight cramping” and “mild bleeding,” even described as simply “emptying the uterus.” But none of this changes the truth. There is a real darkness there, one that blinds and deceives.

If they truly knew the gift of God and who He is, they would not remain in darkness.

We are beyond blessed to share our living water.

We have been given the grace to know Him and to see clearly, and that comes with responsibility. This is why the work we do matters and why we need more centers like Guiding Star. I am so grateful for Guiding Star, which brings truth, care, and real support to women.

Our call is more than simply standing on a sidewalk. It is about being bold, speaking truth in love. Tell others about your love for life, for truth, for helping women.

As we continue these final days, let us respond with courage and bring His truth and light wherever He sends us.

Please join us! We’ll have a photo booth, food, prizes, and an opportunity for fellowship.

Reminder: Sidewalk Story Contest
We would still love to hear from you. Share a moment from your hour at the vigil that impacted you, whether it was a conversation, a quiet encounter, or something the Lord placed on your heart.

Please email your story to [email protected] with the subject line: My Sidewalk Story

Gratefully in Christ,

Jessica Sifuentes
President & CEO
Southwest Coalition, Inc.