The sun had slipped behind the hills in the western sky, making the city dark. Soon, oil-filled lamps and candles dimmed, doors and windows shut, and the city went to sleep. For one man, however, sleep was becoming increasingly elusive. The words of the young teacher were troubling at first, and now these words had become downright sleep disturbing.
Realizing that he would not find rest this evening, the troubled leader retrieved his outer coat and his sandals and took a chance - he took a chance that Jesus was also still up. Making his way to the place where Jesus was staying, he tapped on the door pensively. He was preparing to knock again, a little bit harder, when the door began to open slowly.
Standing at the door was the young teacher, and with a huge smile and a warm kiss on the cheek, Jesus said, “Come on in Nicodemus, I have been waiting for you.” With those words, Jesus motioned to sit on the cushions by the hearth, where cooking by day and warmth by night could be had. As they sat, small talk was not on the agenda, and Nicodemus began to speak.
“Teacher, you must be from God. No one can do what you do unless you are from God.”
You can read the rest of the story in John 3:1-21. The observation I want to make is that Jesus was up and waiting. Nicodemus waited until night to go to Jesus. He didn’t want to be seen seeking Jesus. Jesus was up!
As a guy who often sleeps odd hours, gets up early, and goes to bed late, I love that Jesus was up. I love that Jesus was available in the dark at night to a guy who didn’t want to be caught with Jesus during the day.
Jesus didn’t answer the door with - “Do you have an appointment?” He did not say, “I am tired. Come back later.” He took the time to listen and teach Nicodemus. This is so great to me.
We live in a world that often misses the kindness of God. Often I hear people say words like, “I don’t like to pray for myself. It feels selfish.” I need to get my act together so I can come to church, pray, read my bible - yet Jesus is waiting. Personally and gently waiting for each of us to knock, where he will open the door and invite us in.
Will you take a small bit of encouragement from this story today? Jesus loves you! He is not nearly as angry as some people make him out to be. Jesus is waiting, not tapping the desk, fidgeting with his pockets, muttering about our rudeness - no, Jesus is waiting. He is waiting for you.