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Home John 3:1-8 NRSVue

John 3:1-8 NRSVue

1Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. 2He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with that person.” 3Jesus answered him, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.”, 4Nicodemus said to him, “How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?” 5Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. 6What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7Do not be astonished that I said to you, ‘You must be born from above.’ 8The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE)

“Copyright © 2021 National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.”

Some thoughts on this scripture

Reflection
Nicodemus was a Pharisee, one of a closely-knit brotherhood who were pledged to keep every detail of the Law, as expressed in the first five books of the bible. They were good people, but they had created such a maze of obligations that it was a life-time's work to remember them all. In face of that, Jesus was saying something simple: /Be born of the Spirit. Love God and love your neighbour/.

Reflection
The love of God is poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who is given to us, and who makes us children of God. Lord, may I heed your spirit, and live by the spirit.

Reflection
Prayer moments are moments 'to be born from above'. We allow cares, no matter how important to ourselves and others, to drift off for a while. We leave aside the phone and messages, and allow God become real in our lives, for God already lives in our hearts. We are born strong with God, and with God's grace being born in us, love is born too. Prayer is our daily time to rekindle love in our lives.

Reflection
Nicodemus approaches Jesus with great caution and 'by night'. He does not commit himself openly. In what ways do I hold back from full commitment to him?

Reflection
Jesus always knew what was in people, what their real agenda was. What did he see when he looked at Nicodemus? What does he see when he looks at me?

Reflection
Nicodemus is a teacher. When Jesus tries to teach him, Nicodemus does not seem to learn. It is God's part to give, ours to receive. How receptive am I as a learner? Is my heart open? What are my limits and conditions?