My Sojourners reflection pondered John's Gospel, and the selection on Nathaniel. The latter is introduced to Jesus as one who is questioning faith, and the larger meaning of life. A catechumen to be sure. Jesus essentially contrasts Baptism that is done as an outward sign, and that which has a deeper expression of the Spirit. Jesus tells Nathaniel that only men and women who are born from above, will possess eternal life. Nathaniel is confounded on what being re-born means. Jesus' emphasis is being born of the Spirit.
Catholics get a little uncomfortable with the terminology of being re-born. It sounds a little too evangelical for us. But our faith must be an ongoing process of conversion and discipleship. I like to remind folks that I am not a priest today for the same reasons I became a priest 24 years ago. And I suspect that married men and women realize that their relationship has matured and grown in a variety of ways.
Back in Algonquin, eons ago, I remember after an Easter Sunday a family relating an amusing incident. It seems that after the renewal of Baptismal promises, and after I had sprinkled everyone with holy water, a woman in front of this family was aghast that I had thrown water on her. She had the experience but missed the meaning.
During Lent is a wonderful time to think about Baptism and our life with the Holy Spirit. While we buy new clothes, change our diets, and engage in new activities, between childhood and adulthood; we do not do the same with our faith. Nathaniel is presented as a seeker of truth. Our faith journey really needs to be one of seeking and finding truth in our faith lives. Otherwise we develop a blandness within our hearts.
Being Born Again takes allowing the Holy Spirit to control our lives. The mystery of faith we celebrate is constantly unfolded before us. Seekers of truth move forward in their relationship with Christ.
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