Dan R. Dick | Read John 3:1-15
Christians live in two worlds. We dwell in an earthly realm
where we experience life through our five senses and interact
with things reasonable, rational, ordinary, and necessary. We
are all part of the natural world governed by physical laws and
moral agreements. This is the world into which we...
Come Holy Spirit, work within me. Use my gifts to serve others, and produce within me spiritual fruit of kindness, love, joy, and generosity. Allow others to know your love and grace through me, O Lord. Amen.
Faith in God and deliverance by God are themes that dominate these scriptures. Abraham casts aside all baser loyalties and in daring fashion entrusts life and well- being to God’s care. Abraham follows God’s initiatives into new realms of loyalty and purpose. Paul reminds us that while Abraham models good works, his righteousness results from his faith. Nicodemus models an Abraham who has yet to leave Ur of the Chaldees. Nicodemus’s comprehension of God’s initiatives is shallow and sterile. The psalm for this day greets with joy God’s invitation to renewal.
• Read Genesis 12:1-4a. How is God calling you to leave behind the familiar for some new opportunity?
• Read Psalm 121. What aspect of this psalm draws your attention? What offers you comfort and hope? To whom do you turn for help?
• Read Romans 4:1-5, 13-17. What distinction do you draw between your doing great things for God and God’s doing great things through you?
• Read John 3:1-17. What experience does the phrase born again bring to your mind? Does it foster positive notions? In what ways do you evidence your baptism in the Spirit?
Respond by posting a prayer.