Hope Born-Again

Daily Reading: John 3

Scripture Focus: How can a man be born when he is old? (John 3.4)

Devotional Thought: A birth is an exciting event! I remember that when my granddaughter, Annabelle, was born I didn't want to miss the excitement, so in the rush of all that was happening in the labor and delivery room, I just faded into the background. I simply 'forgot' to leave as was the plan. Hiding out in the corner and keeping my gaze discreetly averted, I was there for it all. A brand new baby! What excitement! I'm glad I didn't miss it.

Undoubtedly, Nicodemus had this excitement in mind when he heard Jesus speak of being born again. But there was a problem. Nicodemus was 'old.' The excitement and potential of new life, the energy and optimism of youth... all that is over when a person is old. Nicodemus, disillusioned and disappointed by his empty religion, asked, "How can a man be born when he is old?" Sounds like he didn't have much hope, doesn't it?

But Jesus was then, and is now, in the hope-restoring business! He told Nicodemus, in essence, "Don't worry about the hows. Just have faith that God is able to do this."

In whatever stage of life we find ourselves, there is the temptation to think that things are set in stone and change is impossible - "How can I be 'born again'? How can something new and exciting come about?" But God says, "Not so fast! I can make hope come to life again. Don't give up."

Is your life on a trajectory of hopelessness and emptiness? Do you feel that your best days are over? Not so fast! The Spirit of God can transform your life and you can be 'born again'!

Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you are in the hope-restoring business. Thank you that you bring new life to old, worn out dreams. I receive this new life in your name. Amen.

Psalm of the Day: 16 The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength. 17 The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue. 18 Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love, 19 that he may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine. 20 Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield. 21 For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. 22 Let your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us, even as we hope in you. (Psalms 33:16-22)