Born From Above

3 Jesus answered him, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above." (John 3:3)

Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night to talk and see for himself who Jesus is. Jesus seems less than patient when Nicodemus can not understand how a person can be born from above. Nicodemus wants to see things literally, in terms of the law of Moses. But Jesus is speaking figuratively about the mysteries of the Spirit. Fortunately, in this gospel, John gives us all we need to understand Jesus' purpose in two verses.

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. 17 Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. (John 3:16-17)

We only read about Nicodemus two more times - both in the book of John. In chapter 7 verse 50 he speaks up for Jesus before his fellow Pharisees, encouraging them to listen to Jesus before condemning him. Lastly, in chapter 19 verse 39, Nicodemus accompanies Joseph of Arimathea to assist in Jesus' burial. He extravagantly brings seventy-five pounds of aloe and myrrh to prepare the body - giving Jesus a royal burial.

Perhaps Nicodemus was finally born from above.

This weekend, as we remember those who have laid down their own lives for the causes of love, duty, and honor, may we take comfort in the Spirit of peace of the One who loves us best.

11 May the LORD give strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with peace! (Psalm 29:11)