BORN OF WATER AND THE SPIRIT
Acts 4:23-31; Psalm 2; John 3:1-8
Jesus said to Nicodemus, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). Being born of water refers to baptism, while being born of the Spirit refers to confirmation.
From Jesus’ statement, we can deduce that baptism is necessary for salvation. If you are part of the Church but have not been baptized, kindly seek baptism. Additionally, we need the Holy Spirit to become spiritually mature Christians. The disciples were like baby Christians until the coming of the Holy Spirit.
The first reading tells us that “When they had prayed, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.” The Holy Spirit makes us bold and strong Christians, soldiers of Jesus Christ. In Acts 19:2, Paul asked some disciples in Ephesus, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?” Afterward, Paul laid his hands on them, and the Holy Spirit came upon them.
You too need the Holy Spirit. If you have been baptized and have received the Holy Spirit, kindly fan into flame the gift of God you have received.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus, thank you for the grace of baptism. Draw many to this fount of life. By the Holy Spirit, empower us to effectively evangelize your gospel. By that same Holy Spirit, cause us to live a triumphant life on earth and make us an embodiment of your testimony through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
