Homily Second Tuesday of Easter (2021) John 3:7b-15 (Born Once? Born Twice?)
Homily Second Tuesday of Easter (2021) John 3:7b-15 (Born Once? Born Twice?)
At some point in our lives, we probably have been asked if we have been “born again.” That question flows directly from this gospel story we read today. Nicodemus comes to Jesus to ask him what he needs to do receive spiritual consolation in his life. Jesus speaks about being born again and Nicodemus does not know what to make of this teaching.
We are also caught off guard when we are asked if we are born again. The Catholic Church might explain being born again as being baptized. This represents our spiritual rebirth. Many Protestant denominations would take issue with this.
What would they say being born again means? For them it means that at some point in our life, inspired by the Spirit, we make a personal choice to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Before that choice happens there is usually an experience of begin a forgiven sinner and being intensely loved by God.
Many times, these born-again experiences happen on a retreat. Other times people might have an intense religious experience at a prayer group or at a church service. We should not discount these experiences. At such moments, the Spirit is truly moving.
At the same time, it may also be a mistake to say that one must have a born-again experience, or they are not really a Christian. The Holy Spirit does not work in the same pattern in everyone’s lives. A lot of people come to a deeper and deeper relationship with God through many experiences over many years.
Perhaps that is the best way of growing in our faith, not with one intense experience, but through a slowly deepening commitment to God as we go through our lives. Our goal in life should be to seek the Lord always. Jesus is constantly revealing himself to us at every moment.
Reflection Questions:
- Have I had a born-again experience? Did I use that terminology, or did I describe it in another way?
- Are other Christians trying to be helpful when they ask if I have been born again? Or does their question seem invasive?
Dear Parishioners,
We had a beautiful celebration of confirmation last night with almost 40 eighth graders being confirmed. Please pray for these young people. Living out the Catholic faith will be a large challenge for them as they move into young adulthood. Hopefully, the grace of the Sacrament of Confirmation will be a great spiritual aid to them.
Please remember that we have a 6:30 Mass on Thursday for the parish and that there is a Seton School Mass at 8:15 a.m. There are seats available for parishioners at the school Mass.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark