John 3:1-2
Stop.
Get into the light. Stand in front of a sunny window, sit under a lamp, or light a candle. Take a few deep breaths and envision the light as God’s wisdom and truth surrounding you.
Listen.
Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.” – John 3:1-2
Reflect.
On Sunday, we heard the story of the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, a religious leader. The two men fill the passage from John 3 with word play and allusion. It’s a deep and sometimes confusing section of scripture with so much to hear and learn – more than even one sermon can really address. Some of the details are worth just a little more time, and that’s what we’ll do in our devotions this week.
Two things stand out in these first two verses: first, that Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night. We can debate why he does this all we want: because he believes Jesus but can’t face the condemnation of others who don’t, he’s too worried about appearances, or he wants to trick Jesus and catch him without a crowd. Any of those things could be true. But for John’s gospel, the play between being seen in the light of day and hiding in the shadows of night makes a difference. The point isn’t why Nicodemus comes at night. The point is for us to see that Nicodemus doesn’t see, can’t see, is shrouded in shadows. It’s much more about metaphor than intention.
Second, Nicodemus calls Jesus Rabbi. He refers to Jesus as a teacher. Does this mean he thinks of Jesus as his teacher? Is he being sarcastic? Is he trying to lull Jesus into security by letting Jesus think he respects him? Is this just the way that teachers greet each other – but if so, why doesn’t Jesus call Nicodemus Rabbi? This one is harder to crack. Perhaps what’s more important is seeing how Jesus responds to it, which we’ll talk about next time. For now, it’s enough to know that there is some element of recognition by Nicodemus about who Jesus is.
Maybe if Nicodemus was willing to come into the light – that is, approach Jesus with the real desire to see and be seen – we wouldn’t wonder if he meant it when he called Jesus Rabbi. As it is, the two things add up to John not wanting us to think Nicodemus really knows what’s going on.
The challenge to us is to always ask: am I standing boldly in the light or hiding back in the shadows? Am I okay with asking my questions, declaring my faith, being willing to be challenged when necessary, and good with being seen? And if not, why? Does it matter if I think of Jesus as my teacher and leader if I’m not willing to live as a public witness to his love in my life?
Pray.
Jesus, I confess that it’s sometimes easier to hide from you and my faith in you. Guide me into the light of your truth. Make me bold to claim you as my teacher and act accordingly. Help me to encourage others as they do the same. Amen.
Carry On.
What’s one thing about your faith that you try to keep hidden? Is it telling someone you pray for them? Taking time out of your week for worship or study? The way you use your money? Try being open and honest about the way your life is different because of what you believe this week.