Blessed and worthy of praise be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms in Christ, just as [in His love] He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined and lovingly planned for us to be adopted to Himself as [His own] children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the kind intention and good pleasure of His will—to the praise of His glorious grace and favor, which He so freely bestowed on us in the Beloved [His Son, Jesus Christ]. Ephesians 1:3-6 AMP
REFLECTION
Our eternal adoption through Christ is not something we earn. Yes, we are called to do good works, but to work deeply aware that it’s only by God’s grace that we are lovingly redeemed through Christ Jesus. This is why meditating on God’s truth, open to the Holy Spirit, is vitally important, so that the truth gets down deep into our hearts and stays rooted, regardless of external realities. When we really believe the truth that we are completely loved and accepted (while we are in process), we can more deeply rest in His love for us, which is so much greater than anything we feel or deal with. And as we deal with realities, confident in His love and provision, deepening trust ushers in peace and joy unspeakable. And knowing, deeply knowing, that we are fully understood and fully loved as we grow in His glorious grace, we wholeheartedly and joyfully co-labour with our caring Creator.
PRAYER POEM: Blessed
Loving God of glorious grace, stir us to seek and deeply know You ~ the One who is totally trustworthy and true.
Enlighten us to learn Your ways, even during difficult days, and be blessed as we in You rest, while we journey together on this sacred quest.
