Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. John 3:3 NIV
Today I turned three score years old. I got to see my mom on Mother’s Day and my children held a get together to celebrate the moms and my birthday. Pam was in Florida with her mom. One of the kids asked, “What is like turning 60? Hey Nana what was his birth like?”. This started me thinking about birthdays and celebrations.
In the Bible there are only two mentions of people celebrating birthdays, Pharaoh and Herod. Both of these ended with tragic events. This does not mean that birthdays should not be celebrated. Paul says that some regard one day as more special than the other. Each should conduct their affairs as God has given you freedom to enjoy as long as it does not violate specific commands from God. Honor is always befitting.
HOWEVER, the Bible does talk about celebrating the joy of a second birth – being born again. Jesus clearly indicated this was a good thing and people could experience the wonderful benefits of being born again.
Although I remember nothing about my first birth, I very well remember the second birth “day”. I responded to Reverend James Fortinberry’s sermon to give my life to Jesus. Because of my age (8), the asked me to go talk with a deacon to make sure that I understood the commitment I was making. Richard Howe took me away from the sanctuary into a room opposite the old choir room
He talked with me about the consequences of my own sins. The judgment for my actions was a separation from God. Jesus died and his shed blood was the payment exchange for me. As I confessed my sins and invited Jesus into my heart, my sins were all forgiven. I was “born again” into the family of God.
Maybe you can tell where I am going with this post. I am so very thankful for my mom and the life I have lived with my wife and children. BUT, the bigger deal that has an impact for eternity is celebrating my second birth.
Have you been BORN AGAIN? Have you shared with others the joy of being born again?
The salvation experience of repenting and being born again is found in the Bible. In Luke 15 Jesus tells a couple of parables about finding and restoring the lost (being born again) Luke 1:7 and 10. 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
The Bible indicates that the angels of God rejoice over a lost person becoming saved or born again.
Please understand that I think birthday parties are wonderful. My wife has hosted beautiful and memorable parties for members of our family. Her themed parties could easily be written into a book.
Having said that, the second birth is more important. God’s grace is on full display as He chooses us at our worst and tells us He wants us to be one of His children forever.
May you experience the joy and blessings of being born again.
Love y’all