Devotionals for November 27, 2023
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READ
EPHESIANS 2:13-18
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.
For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
REFLECT
Paul’s words above addressed a First Century issue: the religious separation between Jews, the people of God, and the Gentiles, all people belonging to other people groups. But Jesus destroyed that barrier through His death and resurrection, making the diverse church — as we know it — a spiritual miracle! Now we can have access to God as one body.
APPLY
Q: Reread the last verse: How do we have access to the Father?
Q: In what ways do you see yourself as an integral part of the church?
Q: How can you live out this reality more within your church, and your spiritual family?
Q: In what ways do you see yourself as an integral part of the church?
Q: How can you live out this reality more within your church, and your spiritual family?
SING
PRAY
"Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy."
Lord, thank you for making a way for all people to know you and to be a part of your church! You are holy and so good, and I praise your name! Amen.
Lord, thank you for making a way for all people to know you and to be a part of your church! You are holy and so good, and I praise your name! Amen.