Today’s readings exemplify the courage we possess in being confident in God. When Peter and John, who were warned by the chief priests and elders in the first reading not to preach or teach in the name of the Lord, and were released, they returned to the others and reported their experiences. Instead of sadness and fear, they raised their voices, praising God, saying, “grant us to speak your word with boldness while you stretch your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders in Christ’s name.” In the gospel, Jesus told Nicodemus that “unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Being born anew is an initiation into the life of Christ, the life of faith, a life of confidence in God. Today, our world needs more people carved in God’s image, who stand courageously to proclaim truth, and who are not easily swayed by worldly allures to deny their Christian values. Am I ready to stand for truth today in my office, home, marketplace, classroom or wherever I may be?

PRAYER: Lord, give me the courage and wisdom to preach, pray, teach and do your will on earth. Amen.