May 27, 2026
Reflections on John 3:1-17 center on the transformative, “born again” grace of God, highlighting the transition from darkness to light and the unconditional love that moves from theological abstraction to personal, saving reality. Jesus’ encounter with Nicodemus reveals that salvation is a divine, humbling act of “born from above” renewal rather than human effort.
Key Themes and Reflections
- The Transformation of the New Birth: The “new birth” is a fundamental change brought about by the Spirit, shifting the heart from selfishness to loving God and others. It is about adopting a “mind which was in Christ Jesus”.
- The Vulnerability of Nicodemus: Nicodemus coming to Jesus “by night” highlights a search for truth amidst a strict, suffocating life of religious, intellectual certainty. This “nighttime” serves as a metaphor for the difficult, often desperate circumstances—the “womb”—from which new life is born.
- A “Born from Above” Experience: The Greek phrasing indicates being born “from above” rather than just a second time. This means the transformation is not of our own making, but an unsolicited gift of God’s grace.
- The Scandal of the Cross as Saving Love: Jesus equates his impending death with the raising of the bronze serpent in the wilderness. The ultimate demonstration of God’s love is not in abstract theology, but in the shocking reality of a savior who dies to heal a broken world.
- Radical Inclusivity of God’s Love: The well-known verse John 3:16 demonstrates that God’s love is not reserved for the few but is for the entire “cosmos” (the world). This love includes the sinful and broken world, focusing on rescuing it rather than condemning it.
- The Invitation to Believe: The passage challenges us to move from simply admiring Jesus to believing in him, which means trusting in the God who works through mysterious ways like a rushing wind. The Key Takeaway John 3:1-17 invites individuals to let go of the need for control and to trust the “un-tameable” Spirit,which can bring hope and new life when our own efforts have failed. It is a call to move from the darkness of a “know-it-all” existence to a life of faith and transformation.
Worship Calendar
May 31 More than an Observer John 3:1-17 Rev. Eric Lee
June 7 Communion: The Great Exchange Romans 1: 18-32 & 2:1-4 Rev. Eric Lee
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Communion Sunday – June 7
This is a reminder that we will be celebrating Holy Communion on Sunday, June 7. All are welcome to the Lord’s Table. Communion will be served by intinction.
Common Scents
Please be advised that our church has a scent-free protocol. It seems that some of our dear parishioners feel unwell due to heavy floral smells. Please be considerate of those in our congregation who are affected by strong smells and odors and refrain from perfumes or colognes when coming to worship on Sunday mornings. Thank you one and all.
Coffee Sign-Up
May 31 – Earl & Jackie
June 7 – Susan & Kathy
Please note: Effective June 14 we will be serving lemonade at the Fellowship time after worship. If you are so inclined to donate a box or 2 of cookies to help cover the summer months, it would be very much appreciated. Please give your donations to Kathy or Susan so that we can store them safely during the summer months.
September Bible Study
Jacob Birch from the Canadian Bible Society will be leading an 8-week bible study beginning on Tuesday, September 22 at 12:15. He will be offering an overview of the bible from Genesis all the way to Revelations. Mark this in your calendars as it should prove to be a fascinating journey through the Bible.
A Spring Devotional Update (May 20):
A new edition of Our Daily Bread (June/July/August), as well as the current edition of These
Days (April/May/June) are available on the table in the church vestibule and in the devotional box on the church porch.
Elaine’s Craft Club Luncheon
Elaine’s Craft Club is inviting the congregation to join them for lunch On Tuesday June 9, 2026, at Prince’s Japanese Steakhouse, 5555 Eglinton Ave., E. Mississauga. If you plan to attend, please sign up on the sheet posted on the bulletin board in the front hallway.
The Storm is Passing Over
I don’t know about you, but last Saturday was as dreary as it can get. The rain and wind never let up. The temperature dipped and I nervously kept watch over my newly planted flowers and vegetables. There was nothing to do but stay indoors. I DID have to venture out every hour or so, just to empty the skimmer basket beside the pool as the wind decided to blow every loose piece of foliage and maple “helicopters” and what – nots into the pool. Not clearing out the skimmer basket could result in the pool pump burning out. While I am so grateful to have a pool in my backyard, it is not a pleasant thing to have to go out in the rain and empty this thing. Sometimes Mother Nature gives me a surprise when a poor unfortunate chipmunk or mouse has been sucked into the skimmer basket and has sadly perished. In any case, the storm did eventually die down, the flowers and veggies did survive and all I was left with was a plethora of branches and tree “stuff” on the lawn.
However, fast forward to Monday when the skies were blue and the sun was shining, and all was right with the world. Everything looked green and alive and happy. I am reminded of that wonderful gospel song, “The Storm is Passing Over” and I wish I had remembered it when it was raining. I should remember the lines, “Thanks be to God, the morning light appears.” While it may seem drear and dark and hopeless, God will prevail and come the morning, there will be light and hope.
Have courage my soul,
And let us journey on.
Though the night is dark,
And I am far from home.
Thanks be to God;
the morning light appears.
The storm is passing over
The storm is passing over,
The storm is passing over,
Halleluia, Halleluia, halleluia, halleluia
I know that I have posted this link before, but it bears repeating. If you want to be uplifted and to feel the joy and power of God have a listen to this: ENJOY!!
The Storm is Passing Over: https://youtu.be/d3jgPsGQSdQ?si=IWAO99F_BxQzgZ4x
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Tuesdays @ 11:00 AM – Walking Group – All are welcome to walk and enjoy Centennial Park
- Thursdays @ 2:00 PM – Worship service at Centennial Park Place
- Monday, June 1 @ 6:00 PM – Outreach Team’s potluck dinner
- Tuesday, June 9 – Elaine’s Craft Club luncheon at Prince’s Japanese Steakhouse
*Friday, Sept. 11 @ 2:00 PM – Music & Worship meeting