John 3:14-21
14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. 16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. 17 “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. 20 For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed. 21 But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God.”
Darkness or Light
In this Gospel scene, a notable visitor comes to see Jesus in the dark and at night. He is willing to express his strong support and admiration for all the miracles, signs and teachings He is performing. But Jesus calls Nicodemus to think about what is deeper, higher and further than visible appearances.
Jesus wants to bring him from the world of darkness to the world of light and splendor. He explains that, without being born in the Spirit, the body can't achieve (John 3:3-8). The body cares for wordily needs of all kinds, while the Spirit takes a person to heights that go beyond the needs of the mortal body, where it meets the creator and finds comfort in Him. So, the covenant with God should be a gift from heaven received through the birth from water and Spirit, referring to the sacrament of Baptism. The visitor seems interested but needs more clarification. The Teacher is ready and pleased to provide. He arrived in the dark, but will leave with sparkles of light in mind.
On this Fourth Sunday of Lent, we are invited to think about light and darkness in our lives.
Do we feel close to Jesus, or at least ready to visit Him on our own while darkness covers our rest and worries flood our lives?
It is time to remember that He is closer to us than we can imagine. He is available to dialogue with us. He can lead our thoughts deeper and higher, to pass from earthly concerns to the Divine Promises that He prepares for us.
We need to feel the necessity of meeting with Him during this Lent, asking questions and listening to His directions. This is the way to retrieve a peaceful conscience, a renewed mind and a sharpened will.
He is the One who can help us dispel darkness and enjoy light. Baptized, we have been born from above to be light for others. Our deeds alone tell if we are living in the light or if we are still in darkness. Come Lord Jesus!
