February 21, 2024
February 21, 2024
Read. Be Still. Pause. Pray
Read: John 3:1-16 NRSVUE – Nicodemus Visits Jesus
Nicodemus came to Jesus under cover of night as a curious, but cautious man. Nic’s “taking-no-risk, making-no-commitment” attitude just didn’t fly with Jesus. We too, struggle with trying to understand the mysterious, re-creating love of God in human terms. Have you ever wondered what it would be like for someone to give their life for you? It’s difficult to imagine the overwhelming sense of gratitude and indebtedness we would feel for that person. God loved the world so much that he sent his only son, not to simply deliver a message, but to die on a cross, to die on a cross for us. God didn’t ask our permission or even consult us.
I remember a time while standing in the grocery store line, a young child began protesting not getting candy. His mother did not waver from her response, no. The child beyond frustrated with his mom not budging, that he said, “Mommy, I hate you!” The mom’s calm response, “I am sorry you feel that way, but I love you.” “Stop saying that right now, Mommy.” “I love you. Like it or not!” It was clear the child could see that in the face of unconditional love, he was powerless. However, if his mother was willing to negotiate his demands,” saying, “I’ll love you ONLY if you stop begging, then I’ll buy one piece of candy.” Well, then, the child won. The next time he faced parental opposition in the checkout line at the grocery store, he’d play his cards. But since no negotiation was offered, the child had two choices, accept the love, or run from the love.
Is this Good News? Absolutely! When we can submit our wills to God’s unearned love, it is freeing for our very souls. There is something really comforting about knowing a God who loves this world beyond our comprehension, that we just cannot count God out. God just keeps loving us whether we like it or not. Nothing can separate us from the love of God.
Pause: When have you felt like the kid in the grocery store? Have you experienced God’s unstoppable love amid your moment? Having experienced that unstoppable love, empowers us the freedom to love others and spread the news of God’s love. What wondrous love is this, O my soul. Never forget to remember how much God loves us…like it or not!
Prayer: Most Gracious God, we press our hearts to your heart yearning for peace and healing and wholeness. Renew a right spirit within us when we come in the dark of night to ask for understanding and knowledge of you on our terms. Help us have the courage of Nicodemus so that we might simply follow in faith. Amen.
Together,
we are held in Christ’s love,
Pastor Kellie