Encounters in the Darkness - August 8
Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 89:1-18; PM Psalm 89:19-52; Judges 12:1-7; Acts 5:12-26; John 3:1-21
Nicodemus has a few encounters with Jesus throughout John’s Gospel. Today’s lesson is his first encounter when he visits Jesus in the middle of the night asking questions about the teaching that Jesus has been sharing. Later in John’s Gospel, it is Nicodemus who asks Jesus about the laws around judging and who receives a hearing. It is the last encounter that is most interesting when he appears at the crucifixion to provide spices and help Joseph of Arimathea embalm Jesus’s body. Nicodemus, who first comes to Jesus at night, is there in the day to care for him in the most tender and intimate of all encounters. He must have really loved him, known him, and been moved by his life to show up and help Joseph. There is so much that we don’t really know.
I am especially struck by the intentionality that the author places on when Nicodemus arrives. He arrives at night. Is he scared? Does he have to travel when others are asleep? Or is it more about visibility and not being able to see? Nicodemus arrives in the dark. It’s certainly an important detail, as most every detail in the Gospel of John is intentional and points to some truth we are to discover.
Is the same truth our truth as well? Does our own arrival to Christ in the darkness with questions and concerns deepen our faith in a way that enables the ultimate compassion shown by Nicodemus at the crucifixion? Does facing our own pain and brokenness become a catalyst for Christ’s compassion?
If we are to play with this metaphor a little longer, I would say in my own life and what I have witnessed in pastoral relationships is a few different approaches to pain or darkness. Often it seems as if we ignore pain, it will just go away. Or if we cover it up we can just keep moving on and no one will notice. How different our lives could be if we faced what we don’t like or want to ignore turning it over to God for the strength to explore what we would rather not face.
The Nicodemus metaphor might suggest that this is the source of our compassion. Our ability to be with others in their pain and suffering, to reach out in love and compassion is a direct result of our own self-discovery and the willingness to invite God into our moments of doubt, pain, and darkness. I am pretty sure human beings aren’t meant to be perfect. I am also pretty sure we are meant to be compassionate. Maybe the source of compassion in our own exploration into who we are, pain, darkness, and all.
John+
Questions for Self-Reflection: How often do you reflect on your own spiritual life? What are moments of darkness for you?
Daily Challenge: Consider making an appointment with a clergy member for the rite of Confession and reconciliation. This is not often done in our tradition but is exceptionally powerful and a wonderful spiritual tool.