Grace mercy, and peace be to you from God our Father and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Narrative Story (Opening)

The traveler’s journey continues along the path, the wilderness stretching endlessly in every direction. It drains his resilience and hope. As despair begins to creep into his heart, he sees something unusual in the distance. A tree, standing tall and strong, its branches covered in life, with vibrant blossoms.

The sight feels almost miraculous in this colorless barren landscape. As he approaches, he notices the sweet fragrance of the flowers and the cool shade the tree provides. He sits beneath it, resting his weary legs. The blossoms remind him of renewal and growth, of life emerging from desolation, like the first buds and bulbs breaking out in Spring.

The man finds his strength returning, as he reflects on the prospect of his own renewal. He takes in a deep slow breath, savoring the moment of respite and peace.

Introduction: The Question of New Birth

Nicodemus came to Jesus under cover of night.¹ He was a Pharisee, and one known as The Teacher of Israel. He had a sharp mind with big questions. He wants to pin down who this Teacher is. Jesus answer throws him a curve:

Unless one is born again,
he cannot see God’s kingdom.²

Nicodemus blinks. It sounds like a riddle. The truth is it still stumps people today: What does this new birth mean?

Born of Water and the Spirit

Jesus explained to Nicodemus that to be born again is to be born of water and the Spirit.³ It sound simple, yet so deep. Think of a caterpillar shedding its cocoon, The old life gone, new wings unfolding.

This example, simple yet profound, helps us grasp the miracle of spiritual rebirth. In Holy Baptism, just as water washes away dirt, our sins are washed away, and we are given new life in Christ. This aligns with God’s promise where He declares that He will circumcise the hearts of His people so that they may love Him fully.⁴ Jesus describes a spiritual transformation, foreshadowing the work of the Holy Spirit in renewing our hearts and bringing us into new life.

The Promise of Eternal Life

Jesus went on to share the heart of the Gospel with Nicodemus:

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him. ⁵

This promise is rooted in the authority of God who says:

See now that I, even I, am He,
and there is no god beside Me;
I kill and I make alive;
I wound and I heal,
and there is none that
can deliver out of My hand.⁶

Only God has the power over life and death. Jesus declares those who believe in Him will have eternal life, reminding us of the true source of the divine power of salvation.

Living as Born-Again People

To be born again is to live a transformed life. God’s Word promises:

I will instruct you
and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you
with My eye upon you.⁷

This transformation is not only a renewal but also a journey under God’s guidance and watchfulness. We are reminded, new birth in Christ is accompanied by Divine instruction and care.

Conclusion: Embracing the Promise

The promise of new birth is a gift from God, freely given to all who believe. As we nail our sins to the cross today, remember the cleansing and renewal we receive through Holy Baptism.

This Lent, embrace the promise of new birth that comes through that cross. Then pray God’s own Words back to Him:

Let your steadfast love,
O LORD, be upon us,
even as we hope in you.

Our hope in Jesus is rooted in the unshakable love of God, which sustains us on our journey of faith through this life. Walk in the Spirit, live as God’s children, and look forward to the eternal life that awaits us because of Jesus’ victory over death.

Narrative Story (Closing)

The traveler rises from the shade of the tree, feeling refreshed. The blossoms above him sway gently in the wind as if whispering encouragement. As he steps back onto the path, he notices the road ahead still stretches far, but now it does not seem quite as daunting.

In the far distance a cross brings some trepidation but also unwavering hope. The renewal he found beneath the tree is now growing within him. He takes another deep breath and walks forward, knowing the journey continues but he now knows he is not alone.

His thirst is returning, but it’s different somehow. It feels deeper, more profound. It comes from something deeper inside than just physical drought. He wonders: What waits for him beyond the horizon?

To find out you’ll have to join us on Wednesday for the message: “Living Water for a Thirsty Soul.” That message will teach us profound things. I hope you’re here to hear it.

In Jesus’ name.

Amen.

=======
NOTES