Made for This MomentSample

MADE FOR THIS MOMENT: NICODEMUS

Becoming the Hero of Our Own Story

WARM-UP

But those who do what is right come to the light so others can see that they are doing what God wants. John 3:21 NLT

ON THE PITCH

We all want to be the hero of our own story. The person that pulls deep within themselves to stand up for the defenseless, fights against corrupted power, and whose belief in what is right is stronger than what is popular. That’s the way I write it in my head, at least. But in practice? Let’s just say there have been more than a few times I have looked back and wished I had been more lion than mouse!

When we first meet Nicodemus, he sneaks through the shadows to talk to Jesus. His position, status, fortune, and security would all be at risk if anyone saw him engaging with the renegade “prophet.” When we last see him, however, Nicodemus is in broad daylight, publicly assisting in preparing Jesus’ dead body for burial. Such a task, by itself, could make all his worst fears come true.

What happened? Jesus happened.

Jesus met Nicodemus out of the shadows. Jesus spoke to Nicodemus about how God loved him so much that He would trade His only Son for him so that he would never perish. Nicodemus left in confusion, but then he saw the story being played out before him. He soon watched as his friends lied and cheated to condemn this innocent man.

What happened next turned Nicodemus into a hero in all our stories. He cast his fears aside, walked into the light, and served the dead remains of the one humiliated in front of the same people whose admiration he once desired.

A tipping point had been reached. His relationship with Jesus and the corruption of man gave Nicodemus the internal strength to step out of his comfort and step up to the powerful. He was fed up with the injustice and wanted something better. He wanted to be better.

A person with integrity is said to do what is right when no one is looking. Maybe a hero does what is right, especially when it is not popular, when everyone is looking. In his own story (and in ours), Nicodemus became a hero!

What is an area of your life where you need to step out into the light? Who in your life do you need to step up and be a hero for?

EXTRA TIME

John 3:1-21

PRAYER

Lord, I have come to you out of the shadows many times. Thank you for receiving me in my doubts and fears. Thank you for reminding me how much you love me. Thank you for being in my life, not to judge me, but to save me. Thank you for putting heroes in my life who shared your love when needed. Amen