GOSPEL POWER - APRIL 12, 2021 - MONDAY

Gospel: Jn 3:1-8  1

 Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews.   He 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 apart from the presence of God.”  Jesus answered him,  “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without  being born from above.”  Nicodemus 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?” Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you,  no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water  and Spirit.  What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the  Spirit is spirit.  Do not be astonished that I said to you, ‘You must be  born from above.’  The 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.”

REFLECTION

The Gospel of John describes the Word that became flesh  as “the true light that comes into the world to enlighten  everyone” (Jn 1:9). The various characters who encounter  Jesus are, thus, judged on whether they will choose the light or remain  in the darkness. Nicodemus is described as coming to Jesus “at night.”  He represents those who are alienated from God and are confused  regarding the truth. He catches a glimpse of the light in Jesus and is  drawn to it, but he hesitates to be fully exposed to its brightness. He  remains undecided whether he will become a disciple of Jesus or not.  Being a Pharisee, there is too much at stake in confessing publicly that  he is a follower of the Teacher from the obscure town of Nazareth.  Thus, he remains only a secret admirer of Jesus.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, we often find ourselves like Nicodemus — drawn to you but  afraid to fully commit ourselves to you. Help us to take a leap of faith.  Amen.