Friday 19 August 2022
- Bible Book:
- Ephesians
But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. (vs 13-14)
Background
When this letter was written there were three ways that people were socially identified: nationality, race and religion. Ephesus was a major trading city and sat at the junction of several trade routes, within the city would have been people of every race, nationality and religion all living in close proximity to each other. Then, as now, this occasionally led to violence and unrest.
It is sad to realise that after so many centuries, things have not really changed, the world is still full of bigotry and hatred, violence, and war. When I read this passage about peace, I cannot help but think of the situation in Ukraine (and other countries that don’t make the news in the UK) and wonder what happened to the unity that Paul talks about, the unity that Christ won through his blood.
Through Christ there is no them and us, just one new humanity.
To Ponder:
- How does the idea of one humanity, with all being equal, make you feel?
- We may not be able to directly influence global conflicts, but we can make a difference locally. What part of your life does not embrace the idea of one equal humanity? Is it something you do or think, or is it something you see and witness? What can you do about it?
- Don’t forget to keep praying for the person you thought about on Sunday.
Prayer
We pray for peace,
and not the evil peace
defending unjust laws
and nursing prejudice,
but for the real peace
of justice, mercy, truth and love.
Alan Gaunt (Singing the Faith 719, or Hymns and Psalms 413) copyright Stainer & Bell Ltd