Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints who are at Ephesus and who are faithful in Christ Jesus: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 1:1-2).
To all who are faithful, he says: only the Lord knows who the faithful are. If you understand that, then treat those you believe to be faithful in this manner: be gracious to all others as the Lord has been gracious to you. Live in the grace you have been given and, as far as you are concerned, live in peace with others. We each have been called by the Lord and we have been given tasks by the Holy Spirit so that we may live this life of faith in fellowship.
Lord, these are simple words and I have heard them many times. I often think of them as just a greeting. Help me to learn to receive them as a blessing and take them into my heart. Teach me how to be blessed and to bless others. Guide me to a fuller understanding of living this life of faith which You have given me. Teach me how to live all my days faithfully, in peace, and loving my neighbor.
Lord Jesus, You who were always faithful, through whom we have received grace and mercy, and by whom are all things held together, guide me in the way of faith this day so that I may be blessed and be a blessing to others. Help me rest in Your peace, share Your peace, and be at peace with those around me. By Your grace, help me today to be Your witness and share the truth of faith in my life with others. Amen.
