From Our Minister: August 2007

Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you,
unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God."
Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old?
Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?"

John 3:3-4 (ESV)

Alexan is number three and I am more in awe than ever of what it means for a mother to give birth. One moment mommy is incredibly uncomfortable (An understatement; I know, I know!) and then starts the process of the baby leaving its dark, protective womb to enter the bright light of life in our world. The agony and trauma to mother and child can never be overstated. It is cataclysmic!

And … there is a baby; breathing, crying, flailing away uncontrollably—alive! I pity anyone who can witness a birth without being stirred and deeply moved by the wonder of God’s creation. Just ask Paul & Christine Boyajian, Mike & Judy Hanley, Renie & Charlotte Janigian, or Chris & Taline Kebadjian. Actually, I think our church may have scored a monopoly on adorable babies in the last several months!

If the first birth is a miracle, the second is a mystery.

A scribe, Nicodemus came to Jesus, commending Him for being an impressive teacher. Jesus responded by informing him that without a second-birth, he cannot even perceive God’s kingdom, “Thanks for the compliment, but you really have no idea what you’re talking about!”
Confused, in return Nicodemus asked the most obvious questions, “So how can someone be born when he is old? Can he re-enter his mother’s womb to be born?!” Jesus repeats Himself, telling him that without a birth from the Spirit, we cannot enter God’s kingdom.

Have you experienced the second-birth? Have you been touched by God’s Spirit in such a way that He has “delivered” you from your previous life of “darkness” in which Jesus Christ had no real place? Have you experienced the “trauma” in the depth of your being of knowing the love of God in Jesus Christ?

If so, live in the joy and exuberance of the new life Christ brings! Just like with a baby, you will bring joy to many! If not, please examine your life. Ask God to bring you to life. One birth, as incredible as it is, is not enough to see God’s kingdom. As you see these new babies, do not simply rejoice over these little bundles of joy; take the next step. Ask that God will blow the wind of His Spirit in your life. Ask Him for new life in Christ!