Focus
Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for peace at this time.
Read
Ephesians 2:11-22
New Revised Standard Version
11 So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth, called “the uncircumcision” by those who are called “the circumcision”—a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands— 12 remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. 15 He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, 16 and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. 17 So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18 for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, 20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. 21 In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God.
Reflect
I have had church members ask me often during this time whether I am optimistic or pessimistic about the future. They want to know if I think our society or our church is going to tear apart because of the division we are experiencing. There is a quote that I have found very comforting during COVID and social unrest. It is from Lesslie Newbigin.
“I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist. Jesus Christ is risen from the dead.”
By faith, I know that Jesus Christ has given peace to all people who seek peace in Him. I also know that there is a chance that many people will not seek to build peace on “the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone.” So I, like Newbigin, am neither an optimist nor a pessimist. Jesus Christ has already created a new reality of peace. We can choose to enter it, or not. The reality is already here. Jesus’ arms are open wide. Go to Him, find peace in Him.
Pray
Lord Jesus, your yoke is easy and burden light. Help us to take up your yoke, and lay down the cumbersome yokes of this world. Amen
Go with God!
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