Wednesday; March 3

When Jesus met with an early believer, they had an interesting discussion about being “born again”. Since Christianity has spent the last several centuries discussing spiritual rebirth, the concept seems normal to us; but when the notion was first introduced to Nicodemus he had trouble getting his head wrapped around the idea of rebirth. He knew that biology would not allow him (or anyone) to start life anew and it wasn’t until he made the connection between a new spirit that it started to click. John describes the discussion that helped him connect the dots, “Jesus answered, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.’” (John 3:5-6). Through the years I have come to believe that Jesus is telling Nicodemus that the things that produce spiritual regeneration are repentance and baptism. It is a changed mindset and a spiritual cleansing through the waters of baptism that provide us with a second chance at life. Interestingly, while these changes can produce a new way of living, the greatest gift they provide is a renewed chance at an eternal reward.
While being reborn is important, we must be willing to make the most of our new opportunity. Getting a new life is great, but it is only productive when we take advantage of it. When we fill our new lives with faith, hope, love and obedience, we find fulfillment in our journey and bring glory to God.
Have we taken the opportunity to start over? If not, don’t miss out on the chance to feel alive – with a life that makes living worthwhile.

Think About It! 

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