What a change has taken place in this Pharisee named Nicodemus.
In the third chapter of John's Gospel, Nicodemus came to talk to Jesus at night so that he wouldn't be seen.
In the seventh chapter, when the chief priests and Pharisees wanted the Temple guards to arrest Jesus, Nicodemus said: "Does our law condemn a person before it first hears him and finds out what he is doing?"
Now, after Jesus has been crucified, look who comes on the scene. It is Nicodemus, bringing with him a staggering amount of a fragrant resin and spices to give Jesus a burial fit for a king.
Nicodemus represents those who partially accepted Jesus during his ministry, but came to see him in a different light after his crucifixion. His faith has grown. He now responds openly with unguarded love.
Which raises an interesting question. Has your faith "evolved" over the years?
How? What were some of the turning points? Where is it now?
- Little Black Book, Diocese of Saginaw