Jesus stands on the temple mount during the highest celebration on his cultural calendar, Sukkot, the Feast of Booths celebrating God dwelling with his people. Important water ceremonies are underway in the temple. All of Jerusalem is lit up with giant torches. The Hallel prayers (Psalm 113-118) are being sung. In the very center of all of this celebration, Jesus declares openly to all who can hear that he, personally, is both the source of “rivers of living water” and “the light of the world.” Water and Light are the central pattern in John’s book, the first section or “wing” is drenched with images of water; the second “wing” is filled with images of light and fire ( all light in John’s day had heat - Sun, campfires, lamps). Of course, there is no life at all without these two elements; but when mixed correctly, things come to a boil.
Water
John 7 | Water Wing 11
The well I dug is dry.
Turn this thirsty stone to water,
this water to wine,
fill these lungs with Spirit,
these viens with Christ.
Let me drink from your Spring
And be alive.
Light
John 8:12-58 | Fire Wing 11
I am the Light, pillar fire,
guiding through the night.
Follow life, be free.
Words to rival the sunrise.
From bright rays we hide our eyes,
but still feel the heat.
If he is, what are we?