The Gospel of John is a different kind of gospel from the other three. Matthew, Mark and Luke are known as the synoptic gospels. John’s gospel views the life of Jesus in a different light. The early church almost did not include it in the Canon. There is no infancy narrative. It is almost like Jesus appears as a divine visitor masquerading as a human. Much of John deals with the questions of where did Jesus come from and where is he going.
Today’s gospel reading tells the story of Nicodemus visiting Jesus one night. Nicodemus had everything. He was a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, he was rich, and male. He still felt something was missing so he seeks answers and a second chance at life from Jesus. He wants to know if this is all there is to life or is there more? Jesus tells him that he must be born again but this time with the spirit. The symbolism of the night visit shows that Nicodemus’s world is small as one cannot see well in the dark. We hide the fact that we know Jesus. We hide in church yet fear to show our faith in the bright light outside of this building.
People languish while looking for answers on their faith journey. We should speak up. No one can live a full life without the love and presence of God. It is that power that Nicodemus is seeking. When the spirit pours over you, you are born again and are one with God. Life come anew. The world is changed and we see the spirit in everything and everyone. We are given a second chance at life eternal.