On the Third Sunday after the Great Feast of Denaha, and on the eve of the Nineveh Fast, His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos reflects on the Gospel encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus (John 3). Nicodemus, a respected leader, comes to Christ by night—revealing the tension between truth, fear, and public faith.

Through this encounter, His Grace explores how institutional fear, compromise, and concern for status can prevent us from openly embracing the truth of Christ. Jesus’ teaching on being “born from above” challenges not only Nicodemus’ understanding but also modern misconceptions about what it means to be “born again.”

This homily emphasizes that being born of water and Spirit is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process of spiritual regeneration that begins in baptism and continues throughout the Christian life. As the Church enters the Nineveh Fast, we are reminded to prayerfully submit to the Holy Spirit, allowing God to lead us from confusion to clarity, from fear to faith, and from darkness into growth in the Spirit.

A timely and pastoral reflection on baptism, spiritual maturity, and the lifelong journey toward the Kingdom of God.