This past Sunday, we delved into the profound story of Nicodemus as recounted in John 3:1-13. It's a narrative that resonates deeply with me, and I pray it stirred something within each of you as well.
Nicodemus, a prominent Jewish leader, approached Jesus under the cover of night. Despite his stature, he recognized a deeper truth about Jesus – that He was sent by God to teach. Nicodemus acknowledged Jesus as a Rabbi, yet Jesus challenged him beyond his position and knowledge. He told Nicodemus that being good, being learned, and holding power weren't enough. Instead, Jesus proclaimed the necessity of being "born again."
The concept of being born again has been widely discussed and interpreted, but Jesus elucidated its essence by likening it to the wind – something we may not fully comprehend but can perceive. It's a call to transformation, a renewal of our minds, as stated in Romans 12:2. We're urged not to conform to the patterns of this world but to continually explore and engage with God's will.
In our journey of faith, we often encounter the trap of complacency. Many, like Nicodemus, may find themselves comfortably lost – relying on their goodness, knowledge, or status within the community. But Jesus's message challenges us to transcend this comfort and embark on a constant renewal of our minds.
Even as Christians, we can fall into the trap of believing that our past repentance is sufficient. However, the concept of being born again teaches us that repentance is an ongoing process – a continual turning away from our old ways and aligning ourselves with God's will. It's not a one-time event but a lifelong journey of transformation and rectification.
We must guard against the misconception that only those in dire circumstances need the saving grace of Jesus. Even the most devout among us need to heed the call to repentance and renewal. As Romans 12:2 reminds us, our faith journey is about constantly seeking to understand more of God's will, to test and explore His ways.
So let us not be comfortably lost, resting on our laurels of goodness or knowledge. Instead, let us embrace the call to rectification – to be born again, to constantly renew our minds, and to walk in alignment with God's will.
May the Holy Spirit guide us in this journey of transformation, as we strive to live out the true essence of being born again. Blessings to you all, count it all joy.
