Ephesians 1:1-2 From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God’s will. To the holy and faithful people in Christ Jesus in Ephesus. 2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.
It is hard to believe that we have now entered into February. Time seems to be moving faster and we still have so much to do. We almost seem to have a never ending to do list and feel like everything changes all around us and we have to somehow keep up. This can cause added stress into our lives. One things that doesn’t change is God, His will and His grace.
Paul knows he has been called into his profession by God. He has learned to follow God’s will, even when it wasn’t safe or completely clear for him. Paul has been all over the known world, during his missionary tours, and even after encountering all types of people, he can still begin his letters with “Grace and peace.” Can we do this today? Remember God’s will for us is to love God and love other people.
One thing that stands out to me is how Paul addresses the people he is writing to, “The holy and faithful people.” The amazing thing is that he knew he was writing to imperfect people but he still called them “holy and faithful.” I wonder how people would describe us when we are not around, or are trying to speak to us?
I believe this is a high calling for our lives. One that comes to completion over time. But we can still strive to be “holy and faithful” in our words, our actions, our thoughts, etc. So starting the letter to the Ephesians in this manner should also have us think today.
We have started a new month. Last month we make mistakes (and will continue to make mistakes this month); but God lavishes grace and riches upon us, even though we do not deserve it. This is grace that God can still look at us and call us “holy and faithful.” Life does not have to be perfect or completely in order, but we have new chances to live into the calling God placed on our lives.
#AmazingGrace
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