The theme of "night" (darkness) and "day" (light) is a major theme found in John's gospel. Nicodemus was honest with himself, recognizing that though he was "Israel's teacher," he was "in the dark" with troubling questions. And he had the spiritual hunger, and this fundamental humility that brought him to Jesus to find answers that he admitted he didn't have or understand. Though the answers he received from Jesus challenged him to the core regarding his upbringing, years of learning, and even his current position, he still opens himself to hard truths. Matters of eternal life are worth it.