Today’s scripture: John 3:1-21 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
Have you ever been fortunate enough to know someone who guided you into a totally new, higher understanding of what life’s really all about? Maybe a teacher, pastor, or friend? Those people are rare gifts from God, aren’t they? Nicodemus’ encounter with Jesus was like that.
When Nicodemus stated his reason for believing Jesus was a teacher from God (namely, that Jesus had performed signs and miracles), Jesus doesn’t seem impressed. Instead of saying, “Yes, Nicodemus, you really get it,” he tells him that no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above. If Nicodemus is to truly see what Jesus is all about, he needs a new way of thinking and living — and needs to start learning via the spirit.
How do you explain the spiritual rebirth? It’s as mysterious as the wind, Jesus tells him. With no weather maps showing the cold/warm fronts and the jet stream, the wind must have been quite a mystery! And Nicodemus just doesn’t seem to get what Jesus is saying. As a leader of the Jews, he must have known all of the details of all of the laws, and how to comply with them, so he was extremely skilled in rational religious reasoning. But, as far as spiritual learning went, he was like a baby!
Did Nicodemus ever develop his spiritual perceptions? I don’t know, but it’s clear Jesus made a huge impression on him. After the crucifixion, he joined Joseph of Arimathea in preparing Jesus for burial, which must have been a risky thing to do. This makes me wonder, had Nicodemus become a follower of Jesus by then?
So, Jesus challenged Nicodemus to think in a radically new and different way. But, what about the “truth shifts” you and I need to undertake in order to continue following Jesus? They’re not easy, but thankfully we have the support of God’s Spirit, strengthening us to become what we are to be. The Spirit is there to help us, even when the change is difficult.
Thought for the day: Lord, what new truth do you want me to see, and what changes will I need to make in order to embrace it?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to begin, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.