Saturday 03 May 2008
- Bible Book:
- Ephesians
"I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints..." (v.17-18)
Background
One of the overall themes of this letter is the unity andconnectedness of all things. In this opening chapter Paul writesabout the way God's plan brings everything together. The samestrength, which is revealed in the Resurrection, is at work in usas we play our part in moving this plan towards itsconclusion.
Having begun this letter with a great summary of the spiritualwealth of life followers will receive in union with Christ, Paulprays that the Church might have clear insight into the hope whichis the aim of the Christian life - the rich blessings which arepromised and the power which is available to achieve thegoal.
One of the driving forces here seems to be the need for Christiansand Christian churches to continually grow. Paul commends hisreaders' faith and love, of which he has heard, and then prays forthem to come to a greater knowledge of God. There is always more tostrive for, more wisdom, revelation, enlightenment, spiritualgifts, blessings and always more work to be done in Christ.
To Ponder
If you were to pray such a prayer for yourself,what would it contain?
Love and obedience have been an underlying themethis week, but what is the connection between the two?