Lake Deaton at Home

When my son Jonathan was young, he went through a period of time that he asked lots of questions. “Why,” “how,” and “how come” were among his favorite words. Jonathan’s curiosity would get the best of him as we attempted to get to the bottom of whatever subject he was interested in. While Jonathan could sometimes drive us crazy with his questions, we actually praised God for a child who was (and continues to be at 28) so intent on learning new things. 

I find Nicodemus’ curiosity refreshing. After the reading below, you can see that Nicodemus, a Pharisee, was knowledgeable in matters of the law and matters of people and culture. Nicodemus identifies himself as an “old man,” yet he is curious enough to risk his reputation and seek a young rabbi at night, to ask his questions. Jesus gently challenges him to open his mind to a new understanding, beyond what Nicodemus has in mind. When Nicodemus continues to ask in disbelief, “how can this be?” Jesus goes on to explain to him how this new life is all possible because of God’s love for us (John 3:16.)

I wonder, what are the faith challenges we are facing today? Are we curious enough to risk asking more questions? Investigate further? Or even risk our reputations to get to the bottom of our questions? Maybe we need to meditate on this passage and think about how  we might identify ourselves with Nicodemus. We might consider ourselves too old to give up our old thinking and take on new ideas, but Jesus would challenge us just like he challenged Nicodemus. Continue learning, continue growing, and continue asking questions. In this journey of life we will discover God’s amazing love waiting for us at every corner. Let us never stop being curious about the journey God has for us.

Read: John 3:1-21

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Questions to Consider:

1. Do you recall when someone answered some of the faith questions you have had in your life journey?
2. Is there something right now that God is challenging you to expand your faith and trust him? What do you need to do to release that something?

Prayer: Lord God I thank you for the challenges we face day-to-day. We thank you for your faithful and constant love and for your willingness to be there for us. Help us to trust you even when faith is a mystery. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Blessings,