“Everyone who believes in Him will not perish.” John 3:16
Did you ever go to a teacher outside of class to ask a question? Maybe you were too proud of your perceived knowledge, or embarrassed to ask in front of everyone – fearful of how your friends would react or tell others once they knew you needed help.
I wonder if that is how Nicodemus, a leading religious leader, felt. Nicodemus was in his latter years, and surely had questions about what happened after this life. Would the countless hours he spent reading scripture and praying, and trying to follow a long list of regulations be enough. “I’ve been religious. But what if that isn’t enough? I need to be certain,” he thought.
Nicodemus knew Jesus was different, he heard of Jesus’ ability to “perform signs” (v.2), surely He would have answers to his questions. He needed assurance that there was more meaning to this life after taking his last breath. So like the confident ruler he was, Nicodemus called Jesus to his office for a meeting. NO – he sheepishly found his way to Jesus under the cover of darkness so none of his friends would see or know.
Jesus must have smiled at the sight of Nicodemus. Jesus wasn't impressed with Nicodemus' title or status, Jesus knew he had a sincere heart and desire to learn the Truth. Jesus didn’t judge or scoff at Nicodemus as he stumbled through the questions to the meaning of life. Jesus took the abstract lessons of trying to do enough good works to outweigh your bad decisions to earn salvation – into a simple one word answer: Believe.
The good news is that answer wasn’t just for Nicodemus. It is for everyone. We know life is hard, and often seems unfair with set-backs, sickness, sorrow and a sense of hopelessness when death arrives. But, we need to know that Jesus is the promised answer to solve all of this – “everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life” (v. 15).
Jesus wants to share the answer. All we have to do is approach Him and admit we need help and just believe that He is the answer to all of our lives’ problems. I pray that you will have the faith to approach and call out to Jesus and follow Him today.
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