Ephesians 3:4 – 6 “In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.”
As many of you know, my son is adopted. My daughter is not. The funny thing is, they look just alike! Seriously, if you hold up baby pictures of them, it is hard to tell which baby is which. Both tow-headed, blue-eyed, fat babies. Each of them has an easy laugh and a great sense of humor. And, each of them carries my heart in their pockets. I love those two wonderful children more than life itself.
I suppose that is how God feels about us. He loves the Jewish people – His chosen nation. And He loves His Gentile children just as much. When He looks at us, He really doesn’t distinguish between Jew and Gentile. We are just His children. He has given us His very heart. Proof of this lies in the fact that He sent His one and only biological Son to pay the ransom for our lives.
This is the great mystery Paul was talking about. The Jewish people knew that salvation would be offered to the Gentiles. But they didn’t realize that the Gentiles would have equal status, in God’s eyes, as His children.
God’s great plan is for all of us who have become His children to work together, to become one big, wonderful family in Christ. We are heirs together of His kingdom – the Jew and the Greek. We all have the same promises, we all receive the same love from our Father.
More than anything, God wants us to embrace one another as brothers and sisters, with one Father. He wants us to love one another and work together to build His kingdom. He has shown His great love for us. Now, we can show our love for Him by standing united, as one body, pointing others to His great love.
John 13:35 “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Dear Father, Thank You for loving me. Help me to love other people the way You love them.
Amen
hey friend! i love the way you compare your love for charis and foster to God’s love for the Jews and the Gentiles–what a great word picture. love you!
Thanks, Eileen! Great to hear from you. 🙂 Love you, too!
As your children are a reflection of you and Mark, may we be a reflection of our Father as we live and love others. I know a beautiful song that says “Make me a mirror of You”. Another thought provoking, life-changing post. Thanks!
R- love this. What a beautiful example you have in your own family. Love reading your wisdom, friend.
What a beautiful and clear way to illustrate God’s heart for all of His children.
beautiful post Renae, in Christ we are one.
I loved hearing Vonda at the NTCW conf as well – she is darling! But spoke with wisdom and authority. Love this!