In this Sunday’s readings, we hear of redemption as a gift of God solely because of his mercy and loving-kindness. Today’s second reading expresses this. We were dead in sin, but God is rich in mercy. He saved us, not because of any good we have done, but only because of his mercy. If we ever are capable of doing anything pleasing to God, it is only because he has first loved us and has empowered us with his grace. The Gospel contains the very famous summary of salvation, John 3:16: “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him may not die, but may have eternal life!” The context of the reading is a conversation with Nicodemus. Nicodemus was an important Pharisee. He came to Jesus at night and said some very flattering words. Jesus caught him off guard by stating bluntly, “You must be born again.” He didn’t understand; he wonders if a person can enter his mother’s womb a second time. Jesus explains that a person must be born again of water and the Spirit, i.e. baptism.

Today let us reflect on a crucifix. Let it show us the horror of sin. But let it also show the gift of God’s love and the curing forgiveness that can be ours if we follow Jesus.


QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

1. Do you know the healing power of Christ’s redeeming love?
2. Do you thirst for new life in the Spirit?
3. How do we know that God truly loves us and wants us to be united with him forever?
4. Do you love God above all else?
5. Do you give him first place in your life, in your thoughts, decisions and actions?

PRAYER
Lord Jesus, your death brought life for us. May your love consume and transform my life that I may desire you about all else. Amen.

Amen.

by Hồng Ân Chúa