Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
The Peace of the Lord be with you!
In our celebrations of the 39th Independence Anniversary we are guided by the theme, “Refocus, Re-Create, Redesign: Independence 39.” This theme speaks to the opportunities for new beginnings and transformation.
While not his intention, in the epistle for today, Paul sheds some light on the theme by sharing his testimony. In the “before” of his life, he was ‘a blasphemer, a persecutor and a man of violence’ (v 13). Indeed, he counted himself as the foremost of sinners (v 15). However, touched by the mercy of God in Christ, he was judged as faithful and appointed to the service of Christ, hence, becoming an example to those who would come to believe in him for eternal life (vs. 12, 16). Such a transformation and the gift of a new beginning was only possible by the Master and for that Paul was grateful. Therefore, the possibilities that Paul sees for the church in Ephesus are endless.
In a context of the ‘lawless and disobedient, godless and sinful, unholy and profane…” at the personal, local and international levels, where do you see the transformative power of God in Christ at work? Where do you see the need for this transformation? What role do you see the church playing in the renewal and transformation of society? What role do you see yourself playing in the realization of renewal and transformation?
Have a transformative week in Jesus!
Your pastor and friend
Mark S. Christmas