What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit ( John 3:6)
It was all Greek to Nicodemus. He couldn’t understand the meaning of Jesus’ call to be born again. But we know that baptism is the time when we, who are born of flesh, are reborn in Spirit.
How does this happen? It is by renouncing what is of flesh and embracing what is of Spirit. This is the essence of baptism.
Holy Saturday is the special occassion to renew our Baptismal Vows. Remember our Baptismal Vows? It was our answer to the questions at the time of baptism.
“Dost thou renounce Satan?… and all his works?…. and all his pomps?” We reply with a firm “I do renounce”. This is the basic requirement to become a christian.
Baptism is partaking in the death and resurrection of Christ. As far as sin is concerned we are dead and our future life should be dedicated to Christ’s service.
Think of the works of Satan through which he ensnares us. Think of the pomps of Satan through which he entices us. Wherever we go, whichever direction we take, Satan is there in various guises with enchanting promises. Open the television, he is there. Go to the internet, he is there too. We know he is behind each and every abortion. Every divorce is his handiwork. Adultery is his dearest weapon. He is behind hatred,anger, murder and everything evil. Once you are trapped it is very very difficult to escape from his clutches. But it is possible with the help of Grace poured upon us through Jesus Christ. This is the reason why Satan hates every sinner who repents.
Come, let us renew our Baptismal Vows on this Holy Saturday. Do renounce Satan, Do renounce his works. And do renounce his pomps. This will make enough space in our heart for the Risen Lord to enter. Remember, Jesus is standing at our door knocking ( Rev 3:19). How can he come in unless we open the door and unless there is space inside?
We invite all to spend an hour tonight in deep contempation in preparation for the glorious resurrection of our Lord and Saviour. We are called to partake in his resurrection. Let our hearts be open to him.
Bible verse for contemplation:
‘Put away your former way of life, your old self, corrupt and deluded by its lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your minds'( Ephe. 4:22-23).
