Good Questions

Did Nicodemus visit Jesus because he was a timid man? Or was he simply being prudent because he was a leader of the Jews? News of such a visit might place his reputation and authority in real jeopardy.

It takes courage for leaders (or anyone else) to ponder what it means for Jesus to be a teacher from God. Some things that Jesus taught opened possibilities that seem impossible. It takes courage to ask questions about things that you do not understand, knowing that they may produce answers that go in a direction you had not planned to take and which may change everything in ways you’d prefer not to think about.

Nicodemus asked questions. He got answers he did not understand. So he asked more questions. The answers he received have helped many to follow Jesus.

At times I’ve heard some make claims about Jesus’ answers with such insistence and in ways that don’t sound like Jesus to me. That’s when it seems to me to be a good time for everyone to have the courage to ask Nicodemus-like questions.

Sometimes it’s good to be a bit in the dark and to be able to admit it, especially if you are one who leads.

Wise teacher, give us the courage to ask the questions we would avoid. Amen. — KW