Nicodemus, who had gone
to Jesus before, and who was one of them, asked, “Our law does not judge people
without first giving them a hearing to find out what they are doing, does it?” John 7.50,51
Nicodemus is an interesting
person. He had previously gone to Jesus, under cover of night, to ask about
this “new way” that Jesus preached. Here he is sort of standing up for Jesus.
At least, he’s making noises about Him getting some sort of hearing. At the end
of his gospel, John relates how Nicodemus accompanied Joseph of Arimathea in
removing Christ’s body from the cross and anointing it in burial. Something has
been happening for Nicodemus. We hear nothing further about him, so we don’t
know if he became a true and dedicated believer, nor if he made any more open
declaration of faith.
Nicodemus is not alone in his
experience. I sense that some people attend church without any real commitment
to living in obedience to God as a true follower of Jesus. Indeed, many may not
have experienced the birth from above, the spiritual birth of which Jesus spoke
to Nicodemus. I pray for such people, that they will experience God’s sovereign
move of rebirth, that they will cast off lukewarm-ness, and embrace the
fullness of Christ and live in His Spirit.
I pray also for myself, that I
may never be ashamed of my faith, that I may live it, to God’s glory.
Holy Father,
The story of Nicodemus intrigues me and causes me to think of those who
seem to be nominal in their commitment to You. I pray for these souls, and I
ask You to touch them in power. May they know the rebirth that comes from
above. May they find themselves on fire for Jesus.
Lord, I pray for the sleeping church. I ask You to wake it up into the
fullness of spiritual life.
I ask also for myself, that I may ever live out Your wonderful love and
faithfulness in my life.
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