Books as Missionaries: A Legacy Beyond the Page
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
As authors, it’s easy to get caught up in the deadlines, edits, and stubborn scenes that just won’t cooperate. We sit at our desks, wondering if the words we’re wrestling with will ever come together. What we sometimes forget is this: our books are more than stories—they’re seeds planted in hearts we may never meet.
Your words may travel farther than your feet ever will.
Recently, I had the joy of talking with my dear friend Robin Jones Gunn, on the Avid Readers of Christian Fiction Podcast, who reminded me of this truth in the most beautiful way.
Stories that Travel Further Than We Do
Robin shared about her trip to Brazil, where she met readers who had grown up with her Christy Miller books—now translated into Portuguese. Women came up to her, hugged her, and called her “Mama Robin.” For many, those books were the reason they came to faith or even began writing.
“My books are speaking languages I will never learn and going places I will never go. The books are the missionaries.”
– Robin Jones Gunn
Books can be missionaries that speak where we cannot go.
Psalm 102:18 says it so clearly: “Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.”
The Gift of Community
Robin also recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Christian Fiction Writers conference. Even as she laughed about the word “lifetime”—because she’s far from finished writing—she reflected on the honor of being part of such a faithful community.
I’ve known Robin for decades, and one of my favorite memories is of us posing for silly photos at an ACFW conference, wearing wax lips from a Halloween candy stash. That’s what I love about Christian writers: it’s not about competition, but about encouragement, laughter, and cheering one another on.
Robin mentored me when I was just starting out—22 years old and pregnant—and many of the lessons she taught about character charts and story craft are the same ones I now pass on to homeschool co-ops and writing students. Her influence isn’t just in her books but in the countless writers she’s encouraged.
True legacy isn’t built alone—it’s nurtured in community.
Excellence as Worship
During our conversation, Robin stressed something important for new writers: the value of doing the hard work of editing, learning, and refining.
“It’s not just popping something out there and wondering why no one’s buying it,” she said. “It’s asking, how can I make this the best it can be? That’s how I honor the Lord.”
Excellence in writing is an act of worship.
Every edit, every correction, every time we cut overused words—it’s all part of shaping our art into something excellent, something enduring.
Getting Out of the Wrong Bucket
One of the most moving parts of Robin’s story is her honesty about dreams that didn’t go the way she expected. As a young woman, she longed to be a missionary in Africa. She even applied to serve as a laundry supervisor in Nairobi. When that door closed, she was discouraged.
Years later, she met a young woman from Nairobi who had grown up reading her books. This woman told Robin, “You didn’t need to come to Africa to wash our laundry. You sent your stories, and they washed our hearts.”
Sometimes God calls us to put down the wrong bucket so we can pick up the right assignment.
A Higher Calling
For Robin, the legacy is clear: books that serve as missionaries, words that point readers to Jesus, and a writing life marked by integrity and excellence.
When your calling is higher than success, your impact is deeper than you can see.
And for all of us—whether we’re writers, teachers, parents, or servants in other roles—the calling is the same: to use the gifts God has given us, not for attention or money, but to glorify Him.
Robin’s words reminded me again that our work is not in vain. What we write, what we say, what we live—it matters. It shapes hearts, builds faith, and will continue echoing long after we’re gone.
Robin’s New Book: Gelato at the Villa 🍨🏡
If you’ve loved Robin’s Christy Miller and Sisterchicks series, you’ll want to check out her latest work of fiction, Gelato at the Villa. It’s the second book in her charming Suitcase Sisters series, filled with travel, friendship, faith, and delightful adventures.
This story invites readers to savor life (and gelato!) while discovering God’s sweet surprises along the way. As with all of Robin’s books, Gelato at the Villa blends warmth, humor, and heartfelt truth in a way that lingers long after the last page.
Great stories are like gelato—sweet, refreshing, and best shared with friends.
You can find Gelato at the Villa wherever books are sold and through Robin’s website shop.
Have you ever thought of your words as “missionaries”? Where might God be sending your story—or your influence—that you’ll never see this side of heaven?
Connect with Robin Jones Gunn
🌐 Website: robingunn.com
📖 Online Shop: Robin’s Shop
💌 Instagram: @robingunn
💬 Facebook: Robin Jones Gunn
🎙️ Podcast: Women Worth Knowing
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
September 22
Nehemiah 12:27-13:6-31, Nehemiah 5:14-19, Malachi 1:1-2:9
The Choir United in Worship
Nehemiah 12:27-47: The Dedication of the Wall
In Nehemiah 12, we see a beautiful picture of worship and thanksgiving as Nehemiah leads the dedication of the newly rebuilt wall of Jerusalem. The Levites, priests, and singers from surrounding areas are brought to Jerusalem for a specific purpose: to lead in worship. The Levites purify themselves, the people, the gates, and the wall, preparing for a time of celebration and gratitude. Nehemiah then organizes two large choirs who march atop the wall in opposite directions, meeting at the temple to offer great sacrifices. The entire city is filled with joy, as the sound of cymbals, harps, lyres, and voices fill the air. This wasn’t just a celebration of a physical wall but a spiritual moment, where God’s faithfulness is remembered, and His presence is honored.
Nehemiah 13:1-31: Returning to Holiness
As we continue in Nehemiah 13, the story takes a turn when Nehemiah discovers that while he was away, things in Jerusalem had gone astray. Eliashib the priest had provided Tobiah, an enemy of the Jews, a chamber within the temple. Nehemiah’s response is swift and passionate. He throws out Tobiah’s belongings, purifies the room, and restores it for its intended purpose. Nehemiah also addresses the neglect of the Levites and the profaning of the Sabbath. His zeal for the sanctity of the temple and the people’s holiness drives him to take action, ensuring that God’s commands are followed and the people are faithful. Nehemiah’s story concludes with a prayer, asking God to remember him favorably for his efforts to restore the people to obedience.
Malachi 1 & 2:1-9: The Messenger
Malachi is the last book before the New Testament, serving as a bridge between the Old and New Covenants. In Malachi 1, God expresses His deep love for Israel, but the people doubt Him. They offer polluted sacrifices, showing their disrespect for the Lord. God calls them out, reminding them of His greatness and His expectation that they honor Him with pure hearts and offerings. In Malachi 2:1-9, God addresses the priests who have failed to guard the temple’s purity, leading people into sin. He warns them to repent and honor His name, emphasizing the importance of purity in both the leaders and the people.
Word of the Day: Choir
Definition: An organized group of singers, typically one that takes part in church services or performs regularly in public.
In Nehemiah 12, the choir plays a central role in the worship and dedication of the wall. They lead the people in praising God and giving thanks, and their voices of joy fill the city. This passage, along with others in the Bible, reminds us of the power of music in worship and the unity it brings. The Levites, purified and ready to lead, demonstrate that approaching God with a clean heart is essential.
Choirs aren’t just for organized performances; they represent a collective voice raised in worship. Whether in ancient Jerusalem, Solomon’s temple, or the choirs of heaven in Revelation 19, choirs symbolize unity, celebration, and the presence of God. Just like the choirs of Nehemiah’s day, we are called to join together in worship, lifting our voices in gratitude and praise.
When I think of choirs, I’m reminded of my childhood church. We had a small choir that sang with great passion and joy. It may not have been the most polished group, but their hearts were fully engaged in worship. This reminds me that worship isn’t about perfection; it’s about participation. It’s about lifting our voices together, whether in a choir or individually, to honor God.
Psalm 100:2 says, “Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.”
Choirs, both in ancient times and today, invite us to enter God’s presence with joy. Whether in church or at home, take a moment to lift your voice in song, remembering that worship is a powerful way to connect with the heart of God.
September 23
Malachi 2:1-4:6, Joel 1:1-3:21
Weary No More
As we reach the final chapters of the Old Testament, we encounter the prophet Malachi speaking to a weary people. The priests were unfaithful, offering blemished sacrifices and marrying women who worshipped other gods. God calls them out, asking why they cover His altar with tears while disregarding His commandments. It’s a reminder of the importance of sincere worship and devotion to God.
The Book of Malachi: A Call to Return
Malachi opens with God reminding Israel of His love, but the people doubt it. He contrasts His treatment of Israel with that of the Edomites, showing that His favor still rests on them. Yet, they continue to disrespect Him with their offerings and actions. God even challenges the priests, whose unfaithfulness leads others into sin.
God’s words are poignant: “You have wearied the LORD with your words.”
The people have grown weary of waiting for God’s justice and of following His commands. In their weariness, they have strayed from the path of righteousness.
The Book of Joel: A Call to Repentance
Joel describes a devastating locust plague, symbolizing the destruction sin brings into our lives. Yet, amid this devastation, there’s a glimmer of hope. Joel calls the people to repentance, urging them to “return to the LORD your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.”
God’s response to genuine repentance is beautiful: He promises to restore what the locusts have eaten, to pour out His Spirit on all people, and to save everyone who calls on His name.
The Word of the Day: Weary
Definition: Exhausted in strength, endurance, vigor, or freshness.
Malachi speaks to a deep, spiritual weariness—an exhaustion that comes not just from physical exertion but from the soul’s struggle to stay true to God amidst life’s challenges. The Israelites were weary from their failures, their repeated disobedience, and their efforts to fulfill the law perfectly. They were drained, feeling the weight of their imperfections.
Finding Hope in Our Weariness
After 266 days of reading the story of the Israelites, it’s easy to feel weary. The cycle of disobedience, repentance, and God’s mercy repeats again and again. It reveals a profound truth: on our own, we cannot attain the righteousness required to dwell with a holy God.
But here’s the good news—God knows our weariness. He understands the exhaustion of striving to live up to His standards in our strength. And He has a plan. Tomorrow’s reading marks a turning point. God will no longer wait for humanity to rise to Him. Instead, He will come down to us in the person of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of the law, and the source of true rest for our weary souls.
Turning Weariness into Worship
When we’re exhausted by life’s trials and our failures, we can turn to God with sincere hearts. Joel’s call to repentance is a call to bring our weariness to God. Lay it all before Him—your struggles, doubts, and failures. Let Him restore and renew you. His promise of mercy and love is for everyone who turns to Him.
Resting in God’s Unchanging Love
Malachi reminds us of God’s unchanging nature. While we are ever-changing and constantly failing, God remains steadfast. His love for us does not waver. In our weariness, we find rest in His unchanging love. Jesus is the fulfillment of this love, the One who invites us to find our rest in Him. When we place our burdens on Him, we discover that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
September 24
Mark 1:1, Luke 1:1-4, John 1:1-18, Matthew 1:1-17, Luke 3:23-38, Luke 1:5-38
The Power of the Word
As we begin our journey into the New Testament, we’re immediately introduced to a profound concept: “The Word.” This Word isn’t just a phrase or a title; it’s a divine person with the power to transform lives. From the very start, the Gospels present Jesus not merely as a man but as “The Word”—eternal, divine, and full of life.
Mark, Luke, and John: Different Perspectives, One Word
Mark wastes no time getting to the action, diving straight into the “Good News about Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). Mark is like the action verb of the Gospels, focusing on what Jesus did rather than what He said. Luke, on the other hand, gives us a meticulous account, explaining the origins and background of Jesus and John the Baptist in an orderly fashion. Then, we have John, whose Gospel opens with a poetic prologue, introducing Jesus as “The Word.”
The Word Defined
John 1:1-3 reveals, "In the beginning, the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God."
This statement is both mind-blowing and foundational. Before anything existed—before time, space, or matter—the Word was there. The Word was not just present; He was with God and was God. This means that Jesus, the Word, shares the same essence as God the Father. He isn’t a lesser deity but fully divine, the Creator through whom everything came into being.
What Does “The Word” Mean for Us?
In our everyday lives, we might miss the divine presence amidst the noise and chaos. But “The Word” is right here, always active, always creating, always renewing. He is the light shining in the darkness, and no darkness can overcome it (John 1:5).
Word of the Day: Word
Definition: An authoritative utterance, or command; news; tidings; information.
According to BibleStudyTools.com: God reveals something about himself through his spoken word, which is ultimately and perfectly personified in his Son, Jesus Christ.
Three Ways to Apply “The Word”:
- Recognize the Word: In our daily hustle, we often overlook the divine. The Word is more than just ancient Scripture; He is the living presence of God among us. Let’s be mindful of His work in our lives and open our eyes to His presence.
- Receive the Word: John tells us that those who receive the Word have the right to become children of God (John 1:12). By embracing Jesus—the Word made flesh—we open ourselves to a relationship with God that transforms our hearts and minds.
- Live by the Word: The Word isn’t just a theological concept. He’s the living and transformative power of God. When we live by the Word, our lives reflect His light, and we become beacons of hope in a dark world.
When we accept the Word into our hearts, we’re not just adopting a belief system; we’re embracing a person—Jesus. And in Him, we find light, life, and truth. As we continue through the Gospels, let’s not just read the Word but receive Him. He has the power to turn our darkness into light and fill our lives with the hope that comes only from God.
Remember: "Your Word is truth." - John 17:17
September 25
Luke 1:39-80, Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 2:1-40
Birth: The Dawn of Redemption
Birth is not just the beginning of life; it’s the culmination of promises, prophecies, and God’s providence. When we delve into the birth narratives of Jesus Christ, we aren’t just reading history; we’re uncovering the heartbeat of a loving God determined to bring redemption to His people.
Joy and Faith: Elizabeth and Mary
In Luke 1, we witness Elizabeth’s joy as she is filled with the Holy Spirit and recognizes Mary as the mother of her Lord. Despite the hardships and struggles the Jewish people faced, Elizabeth remained faithful, trusting in God’s promises. When she hears Mary’s greeting, the baby John leaps within her, and she exclaims, “God has blessed you above all women, and your child is blessed!” (Luke 1:42). This moment is more than a family reunion; it’s the fulfillment of God’s word. Elizabeth’s faith shows us that even in difficult times, God’s promises hold true.
Then, there’s Mary. Her song of praise, the Magnificat, reveals her deep faith and understanding of God’s work in her life. She recognizes her need for a Savior and glorifies God for His mercy and strength. As Charles Spurgeon beautifully said, “Mary rejoiced and gloried in God, though the child was not yet born. Brothers, there are some of you who cannot even sing over a mercy when it is born, but here is a woman who sings over an unborn mercy.” Mary’s faith was so strong that she could praise God for a promise not yet fully seen.
The Arrival of Jesus: An Unexpected Setting
In Luke 2, we move from promise to fulfillment. In the most humble of settings—a stable in Bethlehem—the Savior is born. He is wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger because there was no room at the inn. The King of kings enters the world, not in a palace but in a lowly manger. Shepherds, the least expected to receive such a grand announcement, are the first to hear the good news. An angel of the Lord tells them, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (Luke 2:14). They hurry to Bethlehem, becoming the first witnesses to God’s promise fulfilled.
Word of the Day: Birth
Definition: The act or fact of coming into life, or of being born; generally applied to human beings; as, the birth of a son.
What Does This Birth Mean for Us?
- God’s Unexpected Plans: The birth of Jesus reminds us that God’s ways are often unexpected. Mary and Joseph, humble and ordinary, were chosen for an extraordinary purpose. Jesus, the King of kings, was born in a stable, surrounded by animals and shepherds. This teaches us that God’s plans are often different from ours. When life takes an unexpected turn, remember that God’s ways are higher, and His plans are perfect.
- Birth as a Beacon of Hope: Jesus’ birth signifies hope breaking into the darkness. Just as dawn follows the night, the arrival of Jesus brings light into the world. Whatever darkness you may be facing today—whether it’s fear, uncertainty, or despair—remember that Jesus’ birth is the promise of God’s light shining in the darkest places.
- Birth Calls for a Response: The shepherds didn’t just hear the good news; they acted on it. They hurried to see Jesus and then spread the word about what they had witnessed. Similarly, the birth of Jesus calls for a response from us. How are we responding to Jesus in our lives? Is He the center of our decisions, our actions, our hearts?
Reflecting on the birth of Jesus is more than remembering a historical event. It’s an invitation to embrace God’s unexpected plans, to find hope in His promises, and to respond with faith and action. Just like the shepherds, let’s hurry to the presence of Jesus, allowing His birth to transform our lives. Let this birth not just be a story we hear but a reality we live out every day.
September 26
Matthew 2:1-23, Luke 2:41-52, Mark 1:2-8, Matthew 3:1-12, Luke 3:1-18, Mark 1:9-11, Matthew 3:13-17, Luke 3:21-22
New Beginnings in Faith
The Arrival of the King: A Humble Beginning
Yesterday, we experienced the wonder of Jesus’ birth—prophecies fulfilled and long-awaited hopes realized. The story continues today with the visit of the wise men, who traveled from the East following a star that announced Christ’s birth. They brought gifts to honor the newborn King. But isn’t it interesting that these foreign astrologers were the ones to announce this miracle to the world? Martin Luther noted how remarkable it was that Christ was born among the Israelites, yet they first heard of it from “alien and heathen foreigners.” It’s a reminder that sometimes, God’s most profound revelations come in unexpected ways.
Herod, the reigning king, was troubled by the news. Known for his cunning and paranoia, he sought to destroy this new King by ordering the massacre of all baby boys under two. Yet, in the face of this darkness, we see God’s protection over Jesus. An angel warns Joseph to flee to Egypt, fulfilling the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Herod’s plans failed, and upon his death, Joseph and his family returned, settling in Nazareth.
When Jesus was twelve, we get another glimpse into His life. His family traveled to Jerusalem for Passover, and on the journey back, they realized Jesus wasn’t with them. They returned to find Him in the temple, amazing the elders with His understanding. Even at this young age, Jesus knew who He was and His purpose. Yet, He humbly submitted to His earthly parents, showing us that humility is a hallmark of God’s people.
The Voice in the Wilderness: John’s Bold Beginnings
We then shift to the ministry of John the Baptist. Mark’s gospel, the “action” gospel, dives right into the wilderness where John preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John was not the typical preacher—he wore clothing made of camel’s hair and ate locusts and wild honey. But people from all around came to hear his message, confess their sins, and be baptized.
John’s call was simple but profound: “Prepare the way for the Lord.” He was laying the groundwork for Jesus, calling people to repent and turn back to God. His message was clear: something greater was coming. “I baptize you with water,” he declared, “but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
The Baptism of Jesus: A New Beginning
Then, Jesus came to the Jordan to be baptized by John. John hesitated, feeling unworthy, but Jesus insisted. This act wasn’t about repentance for Jesus. It was a declaration, the beginning of His public ministry. As Jesus emerged from the water, heaven opened, and the Spirit of God descended like a dove. A voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him, I am well pleased.” It was a powerful moment, showing the unity of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—at the beginning of Jesus’ journey.
Word of the Day: Beginnings
Definition: The point in time or space at which something starts.
In life, beginnings are filled with hope, anticipation, and a sense of purpose. Today’s readings remind us of several beginnings. We see the wise men acknowledging Jesus’ birth, the humble beginnings of Jesus’ life in Nazareth, John’s call for a new start through repentance, and Jesus’ baptism marking the start of His ministry. Each beginning in these narratives is God’s way of showing us that He is present in every new start, guiding and affirming us.
What Can We Learn from These Beginnings?
- God Works Through Unexpected Ways: The arrival of the wise men, foreign astrologers, teaches us that God’s plans might unfold in ways we don’t anticipate. His light shines brightest in the most unexpected places.
- New Beginnings Require Preparation: John the Baptist’s ministry was about preparing hearts for Jesus. Likewise, our fresh starts often need a heart of repentance and readiness to embrace what God is doing.
- Beginnings Are Moments of Divine Affirmation: Jesus’ baptism was a moment when God publicly affirmed Jesus. In our own beginnings, whether in faith, relationships, or personal growth, God is there, whispering, “You are mine.”
Your Fresh Start
Reflect on the beginnings in your own life. The excitement and anticipation that comes with starting something new—whether it’s a new job, a new relationship, or a fresh spiritual journey—are filled with God’s purpose. Like Jesus at His baptism, know that God is with you in your beginnings, affirming you, guiding you, and loving you through each step.
Ask God to Keep That Beginning Close
Beginnings are powerful. They set the tone and direction for what follows. Remember the thrill of starting a new goal, like training for a race or embarking on a new project. The journey can be tough, but the start is filled with hope. As you consider the beginnings in your life, remember that God is the ultimate beginning. He is the Alpha and Omega, the start and the end. Every new beginning with God is a reminder that He is writing a beautiful story in and through you.
September 27
Mark 1:12-13, Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-15, John 1:19-2:25
Disciples of the Word
Jesus in the Wilderness: A Lesson in Faith
In Mark 1:12-13 and Matthew 4:1-11, we find Jesus, freshly baptized, being led by the Spirit into the wilderness. There, for forty days, He faces temptation from the devil himself. This isn’t just a quick moment of temptation—it’s an extended period where Jesus is vulnerable, fasting and surrounded by wild animals. Yet, in every trial, He counters Satan’s words with Scripture, demonstrating the power of God’s Word.
Luke 4:1-15 echoes this narrative, emphasizing Jesus’ reliance on the Word of God. Despite hunger and the promise of worldly power, Jesus stands firm, rebuking Satan with scripture. After this intense spiritual battle, Jesus returns to Galilee, filled with the Spirit’s power, and begins teaching in the synagogues. This marks the start of His public ministry and shows us the importance of being grounded in Scripture.
John the Baptist and the First Disciples
In John 1:19-51, John the Baptist is approached by priests and Levites questioning his identity. He humbly points to Jesus, proclaiming Him as the Lamb of God. When Jesus passes by, two of John’s disciples leave him to follow Jesus, showing a willingness to pursue the greater calling. These men, Andrew and Simon (later called Peter), alongside Philip and Nathanael, become the first followers of Jesus.
John’s ministry sets the stage for Jesus, showing the power of discipleship. John prepares the way, but he knows his role is to direct others to Christ.
The First Miracle and Cleansing the Temple
Jesus performs His first miracle at the wedding in Cana, turning water into wine (John 2). This miracle isn’t just about solving a social faux pas; it’s about revealing His glory. His disciples witness this and believe, marking the beginning of their journey in understanding who Jesus is.
Later, during Passover in Jerusalem, Jesus cleanses the temple, driving out merchants and money changers (John 2:13-22). This act reveals Jesus’ zeal for God’s house and highlights the need for purity in worship. When questioned, Jesus speaks of His body as the temple, foreshadowing His death and resurrection. Many missed the deeper meaning of His words, showing us the importance of being true disciples—listeners and learners of Jesus’ teachings.
Word of the Day: Disciple
Definition: A follower or student of a teacher, leader.
Jesus exemplifies what it means to be a disciple of the Word. In the wilderness, He combats every temptation with Scripture. His deep knowledge of the Word fortifies Him against the devil’s schemes.
John the Baptist had his own disciples, but when Jesus came, John’s followers left him to follow the Lamb of God. This is the heart of discipleship: learning, following, and continually seeking Jesus. Today, we see the beginnings of Jesus gathering His disciples—those who would sit at His feet, absorb His teachings, and eventually carry on His mission.
Be a Disciple and Make Disciples
Being a disciple of Christ means immersing ourselves in His Word, surrounding ourselves with fellow believers, and being open to both encouragement and correction. It’s about sitting at the feet of Jesus and letting His words shape our lives.
But it doesn’t end there. We are also called to disciple others. This might be through raising your children and grandchildren in the faith, mentoring young believers, or leading a Bible study. We are all part of a spiritual lineage, learning from those who went before us and passing on what we’ve learned to others.
Think of it like this: We must be poured into by the Word, by a solid church community, and by seasoned believers so that we can, in turn, pour into others. The best disciples are those who are filled with God’s truth and are actively sharing that truth with others.
September 28
John 3:1-4:45, Luke 3:19-20
Cleansed by Water & Grace
Nicodemus: A Conversation about Rebirth
Today, we dive into a story many of us may “know” from Sunday School days—the story of Nicodemus in John 3. Nicodemus wasn’t just any man; he was a member of the Sanhedrin, a Pharisee, and a learned man of his time. But this was no simple visit. Nicodemus sought Jesus under the cover of night, curious about the miracles and signs he had witnessed. The conversation that followed challenged everything Nicodemus knew about faith and life. Jesus spoke of being “born again,” a concept that Nicodemus found perplexing. How can someone enter back into their mother’s womb? This was a new language—a spiritual language—that required him to remap his understanding of God.
It’s here that we find one of the most quoted verses in the Bible: John 3:16—”For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” The depth of this conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus is rich, filled with spiritual truths about rebirth, God’s love, and eternal life. We can learn so much about our spiritual journey through these verses, so take time to delve deeper today.
John the Baptist: The One Who Prepares the Way
While Jesus is baptizing in the Judean countryside, John the Baptist is also continuing his ministry. When a debate arises among John’s disciples about purification, they notice that more people are now going to Jesus. John, however, doesn’t see this as a threat. Instead, he reminds them, “He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less” (John 3:30). John recognizes his role—to prepare the way for Jesus, not to overshadow Him. He declares, “He has come from above and is greater than anyone else” (John 3:31). This echoes the words from Isaiah: “My ways are above your ways, my thoughts are above your thoughts.” John knew his place in God’s grand design.
The Samaritan Woman: Living Water at the Well
In John 4, we see Jesus encountering the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. This interaction breaks many societal norms—Jews usually avoided Samaritans, and men rarely spoke directly to women in public. But Jesus initiates a conversation that leads to a life-altering revelation. He offers her “living water,” a metaphor for salvation and eternal life. Though the woman doesn’t immediately understand, she soon realizes that Jesus is the Messiah. Her encounter with Jesus leads to the transformation of many in her hometown. She leaves her water jar behind—a symbol of leaving her old life to embrace the new life Jesus offers.
John the Baptist’s Stand Against Herod
Meanwhile, in Luke 3:19-20, we see John the Baptist confronting Herod Antipas about his sinful actions, including marrying his brother’s wife. John’s courage and commitment to righteousness ultimately lead to his imprisonment. Despite the consequences, John stands firm in his faith, showcasing the boldness that comes with being a true disciple of God.
Word of the Day: Water
Definition: To pour or sprinkle water over (a plant or area) in order to encourage plant growth.
Water appears repeatedly in these passages, not just as a physical element but as a powerful symbol of spiritual cleansing, growth, and renewal. From Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus about being “born of water and the Spirit” to the “living water” offered to the Samaritan woman, water signifies more than just a basic need. It represents the cleansing of sin and the flow of divine grace.
God has used water time and again to show His power and to foreshadow salvation. Remember the beginning of creation? God’s Spirit hovered over the waters. Then there was the flood, which cleansed the world. The Israelites crossed the Red Sea—on one side they were slaves; on the other, they were free and on their way to the Promised Land. Even in the story of Naaman, who was healed of his disease by washing in the waters, we see this theme. Water is not just a means to quench our physical thirst or cleanse our skin; it is a symbol of spiritual healing, salvation, and growth.
Embrace the Living Water
Like Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman, we often find ourselves thirsty—searching for meaning, understanding, and salvation. Jesus offers us the “living water,” a source that never runs dry. This water purifies, heals, and brings forth growth. Are we, like the Samaritan woman, ready to leave behind our old jars and embrace the new life Jesus offers? Let’s allow His living water to flow through us, cleansing us from sin and nourishing our souls so we can grow in Him.
