Thursday 18 Dec 2014

December 18: John 3:1-8

Key Verse: John 3:3
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

Devotion:
As a parent I know I have had some difficult questions asked of me when I have said something to try and pacify my children. The same can be said for trying to teach youth and children as a youth leader; we cannot hope to give them an answer as if we are reading it from a text book and hope they will go away happy… Jesus wants us to learn the truth and to understand it as well. It is no good knowing the words but not understanding them.

The Ethiopian Eunuch was one such person because he had read the scriptures but could not make head of tail of the real meaning without someone to explain. When we learn we pick things up from others as well as from God through the Holy Spirit. We then have to be willing to do the same for other people when they are in need. Don’t be afraid that you do not know the answer because that can be part of the process. Maybe you are being asked the question to allow you to find out the real truth as well.

I learned quickly to admit to my failings and to go and find out. It is no use blagging your way forward because you are doing nothing more than burying a lie, one that will get found out pretty quickly as the young person leaps forward to find out more. Don’t forget that you are probably being asked the question from a mind that is used to exercise and is more able to learn more quickly!

Jesus gave Nicodemus the answer he needed to hear and an explanation that would not make him stop asking but would get him to be eager to find out more. That is the mark of a good teacher, one who makes you willing to want to learn more and not one that will provide answers to shut you up. When you are asked, don’t be afraid to say you don’t know yet. Don’t fob people off with simple answers but be willing to allow them to dig for more as they take each step forward with you. Rejoice in getting to know God better as you walk with people… and love them!

Points to Ponder:
Who was or is your best teacher?

Do you aspire to be as good a teacher?