Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: April 28, 2025

Date: Monday of the Second Week of Easter

Scripture Text: John 3:1-8

There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you are doing unless God is with him." Jesus answered and said to him, "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born from above, he cannot see the Kingdom of God."

Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man once grown old be born again? Surely, he cannot reenter his mother's womb and be born again, can he?"

Jesus answered, "Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I told you, 'You must be born from above.' The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so, it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today recounts Jesus’ encounter with Nicodemus, a Pharisee, who came to Jesus in the night, so he would not be seen, to learn more. Jesus understood Nicodemus’ fear and recognized his desire to better understand Jesus and His power. Jesus’ initial response to Nicodemus’ probing was to encourage him to be baptized, to be born again of water and Spirit.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I open myself to the power of the Spirit given to me through Baptism and Confirmation? Do I allow myself to be led?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your beloved Son, Jesus, the Christ, to dwell among us as our brother, to reveal your love for us, to teach us and lead us. And He promised to us the Spirit who would lead us. Send your Spirit to stir within us and to guide us in this journey. Grant that we may be open to His prompting, blessings, and grace. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.