Walking the streets of Manila you do not see flashing neon signs that say “Girls Girls Girls.” This is not the Thai bar scene. Prostitution in this Catholic nation is not only illegal, but the women involved deal with great amounts of guilt due to their religious convictions. The reality is that the Philippines is one of the poorest nations in the world. Job opportunities are scarce so, when it comes down to it, survival is imminent. In order to survive, many women believe they have no choice but to “work the streets” or “serve” in a bar. Since prostitution is not highly marketed, pimps are often necessary for scouting out clients. Many times the woman’s husband acts as her pimp to bring money in for the household.
Over the last week, I have had the privilege to build relationships with women who live and have lived this harsh reality. These women need to know the truth and receive hope. Samaritana is a Christian organization for exploited women that I am working alongside. It trains them in practical skills, informally educates, provides counseling, and acts as an advocate. It is a diamond in the rough for the women of the streets. 
Today…Grace came into my life. I made a journey with two Samaritana trainees and a staff person to visit Grace’s home. From the moment I saw Grace, I could tell she hadn’t always been the person before my eyes. As she recalled her past, my heart began to melt at the reality of her story. It was only a month ago that she left the streets to begin a new life. She moved to a new home and now takes care of her two beautiful daughters, who had previously been with her mother. In her own words… “The money I made by working on the streets left me empty never feeling like anything was enough, but now I am happy and full of life. I will take what God gives me for each day.”
Currently, Grace has no means of supporting her family except that which her partner brings home. She has an eye for business opportunities, so her latest idea is to begin a business making food and snacks for her community of 70 people. We are hoping to help her formulate a business plan and provide some capital to begin her business.
Grace is someone who has chosen to begin embracing the grace given to her on the cross. Walking away from the only livelihood you have known is difficult for anyone. It is particularly difficult for a woman with two children, little education, a past that is looked down upon, and wounds that are frightening to face. God has offered her grace. He was even walking alongside her every moment of her journey. A part of His plan was for sisters from Samaritana to meet her at the well, as 
Jesus did with the Samaritan woman. They provided for some needs, encouraged her, brought truth, and offered hope! Ultimately, God offered her living water that satisfies. Grace said herself that working on the streets left her empty and unsatisfied.
The Samaritan woman asked, “Sir where can I get this living water?”
Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, and whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
I challenge you today to receive the living water that satisfies. In your journey live a life of meeting the Samaritan woman at the well. Offer living water to those that endlessly thirst.
