John 3:1-8

As I write this, we are in the middle of the events of Holy Week.  The week is full of emotions for me—anxiety about the coming suffering and death of our Lord, the extreme grief that might be overlooked as we know of Jesus’ resurrection and finally the bewilderment, fear and finally joy found when Jesus’ resurrection is confirmed.

In today’s gospel, Jesus encounters somebody besides his disciples.  Recall, a Pharisee named Nicodemus appears after Jesus dies on the cross.  He assists Joseph of Arimathea in taking Jesus down from the cross and preparing his body for burial.  Today we hear that Nicodemus approaches Jesus at night. Jesus welcomed him and they spoke.  The conversation was about the notion of being reborn.  Nicodemus questions: "How can a man once grown old be born again? Surely he cannot reenter his mother's womb and be born again, can he?"  Jesus clarifies '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 everyone who is born of the Spirit."

Why did Nicodemus go to Jesus at nighttime? Was he trying to do this in secret? Did his emotions got the best of him? Did he have to figure this out before another night of anxiety provoked insomnia? 

As I reflect on Jesus answer to him, I feel a sense of peace—a soft nighttime breeze spreading calm over Nicodemus as he begins to notice God and discern how to develop a relationship with him. I imagine Nicodemus was feeling out of control and seeking some direction.

Let's take some time (maybe in the dark) to pray and consider our relationship with Jesus.  Let us consider the direction Jesus is trying to lead us.  Find some peace in the knowledge that prayer can open us to the Holy Spirit.

Getting back to the wind, consider what the wind does.  While is can be harsh, it can also cool, bring calm and clarity.