Ephiphany 2015

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Scripture: Ephesians 3:8-12 (NRSV)
8 Although I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given to me to bring to the Gentiles the news of the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make everyone see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things; 10 so that through the church the wisdom of God in its rich variety might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. 11 This was in accordance with the eternal purpose that he has carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, 12 in whom we have access to God in boldness and confidence through faith in him. 13 I pray therefore that you may not lose heart over my sufferings for you; they are your glory.

Meditation:

            Paul is making known the Gospel of Jesus Christ through his letters to the churches. Now it is the churches turn to make the Gospel known to the people of the earth. This is God’s own plan to spread the good news of Jesus Christ among the people. God trusts weak and flawed vessels such as you and me to be the heralds of a new and coming kingdom. A kingdom in which Christ himself will be the ruler.
            How can we be effective messengers for God? The most important way is by loving our neighbor each and every day. Truly the world will know we are Christians by our love. Kind deeds and words will attract others to the church better than any other formula known to God or man. Let us pray that we will be effective messengers today.

Prayer:
Lord God may we receive from you the desire and the ability to spread the Gospel of the Kingdom today. Help us to love in word and deed all whom we come into contact this day. Grant us the peace and the strength to love others as you have loved us.

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