Be Strengthened

Paul’s letter to the church at Ephesis is almost like an orientation into the faith. These people who are Gentiles have just converted to the Christian faith and Paul is encouraging them with this “pep talk” of a letter. As I read through this chapter, I see Paul trying to, once more, emphasize how very wonderful and amazing it is for them to be children of the one true God.

Paul had just been held a prisoner in Caesarea for two years and Rome for two years for preaching about Jesus and the new life in Christ, but he is not backing down from his position that the power that comes from serving the Lord is more powerful than any government or person. He prays that the Ephesians will not be disheartened by his suffering, but will see that whatever the cost, following Jesus is worth it. He tells them to stay strong and be strengthened by the love of Christ.

I love his words to the church. “I pray that you will be able to comprehend the width and length and depth and height of Christ’s love for you”.

Do we comprehend that as well? Sometimes I tend to miniaturize God’s love for me. I make conditions and set limits on just how far I can go before the love of God won’t follow. But that is not the case. The width, length, depth, and height covers just about anywhere I can journey.

Do you know that God’s love follows you there, too?

Prayer for the day: God, help us to understand that we can never run or hide anywhere far enough that you won’t be there with us.  Thank you for not letting us journey away from your care. Amen.