THE WORD
Ac 4,32-37 / Jn 3,7-15
Do not be amazed that I told you, ‘You must be born from above.’
The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with every-one who is born of the Spirit.
Nicodemus answered and said to him, “How can this happen?” Jesus answered and said to him, “You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”
IN OTHER WORDS
Nicodemus was a different kind of Pharisee. He was ready to accept his ignorance and was sincere in his pursuit of the truth. Thus Jesus patiently taught him the difference between spiritual birth and physical birth.
Physical birth is a human process through which everyone enters this world. Spiritual birth is of the Spirit. Born of water and the Spirit refers to Baptism which everyone needs to enter the kingdom of God. Here, Jesus is emphasizing that Baptism is important for our entry into heaven. That is the reason why the baptism of children and of those who desire it should not be deferred because of the importance of being born in the Spirit. God dwelling in us.
How many of us have the simplicity to ask for the right answer or seek counselling when we are confronted with doubts or questions about the faith? Let us learn to be humble and simple to accept our lack of knowledge. Let us turn to the Holy Spirit who will guide us. In times of difficulties, the Holy Spirit is always ready to help. Let us pray to him always.
- Sr. Isabel Angela, SSpS | Arnold Janssen Sprituality Center, Quezon City
The Word in other words 2016
An annual project of Logos Publications, The WORD in Other Words Bible Diary contains daily scripture readings and reflections written by priest, brothers, and sisters of the three congregations founded by St. Arnold Janssen (the SVD, SSpS, and SSpSAP). It hopes to serve as a daily companion to readers who continually seek the correlation of the Word of God and human experience.
