Monday of the Second Week of Easter

Taking the Gospel to Prayer

Unlike the 12, Nicodemus does not leave everything behind to follow Jesus. Yet, He is still noted in the Gospels by name. He was both a Pharisee and a believer which would have put him at odds with his fellow leaders. Today, we see Nicodemus being taught by Jesus directly. Tomorrow, we will get the rest of the story.

It is also helpful to note that this event is early on in Jesus public ministry. The miracle at Cana and the cleansing of the Temple immediately precede it in John's Gospel. Jesus' message is "new" at this point.

This context brings us to the thought for today: being born in water and the spirit is an intentional personal choice. Our parents may have brought us at a very young age to the font for Baptism, but living our faith is a daily choice. The Holy Spirit is at work in the world through us. We can be part of the process or we can hinder it. Let us pray for the grace to cooperate with God's calling. Let us work on erasing the barriers in our lives that interfere with our cooperation with God's plan.

Lord Jesus, help me to grow closer to You today.