06-13-21

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
June 13, 2021
Scripture: Ephesians 3:1-3a
This is the reason that I Paul am a prisoner for Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles—for surely you have already heard of the commission of God’s grace that was given me for you, and how the mystery was made known to me by revelation…

Thought for the Day: Today, I will be preaching from another section of Ephesians 3, but I appreciate these words from Paul who has felt the brunt of anger, persecution and betrayal in his work for the Kingdom. When he writes of being a prisoner, I believe it needs to be understood both literally and figuratively. Yes, he had been thrown in prison and would again be jailed in his journeys. It also reflects Paul’s understanding of God’s commission, the calling to be a steward or manager of Gospel to the Gentiles. Paul thinks of himself a prisoner to this work, not as a negative but as a way of trying to communicate the lack of choice he had in this matter. Now understand, Paul wrote often about freedom, and faith requires free choice if it is truly faith. At the same time, there are divine callings that seize us in such a profound way that there does not appear to be a choice. Technically, there is a choice. But so compelled is an individual that all other options appear to disappear. There is only one thing, and one thing alone! Some of the great voices and prophets, both ancient and recent, knew this experience. Some times they were persecuted or even killed for having such a narrow focus. Yet for them, it must have felt as if they were chained to the one task they believed God had put before them. Jesus might have considered himself a prisoner of love. And it was Desmond Tutu who talked about being a prisoner of hope. What part of the Gospel consumes you?

Prayer: Where do my gifts meet the greatest need in this world, Lord God. There is too much suffering, pain and injustice both near and far. There are a multitude of opportunities to serve you. Let me listen for your Spirit, doing so with a discerning heart. And maybe, just maybe, I will find that place where my purpose truly aligns with your purpose. Amen.

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