But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ…”

– Ephesians 2:4-5a

 

Dear HBIC Family,

 

I believe that one the greatest gifts we have in this life is the blessing to see God’s work in transforming lives. We are privileged to have a God who gifts us eyes to see what is happening with people all around us. We are honored that our good God holds us in such esteem that we are brought along (and sometimes even chosen to be used) in the work of changing lives and changing destinies.

 

God’s work in transforming lives is a testament to God’s great love for us. It is a reminder of a mercy so rich that it is lavished upon us. God’s work in changing our lives is a gracious gift, as we are called forth and made into a new creation. I also love that this transformation is done in community. We are transformed by God, Father, Son and Spirit. And we are also often transformed within our community of faith, the Body of Christ.

 

In the book of Ephesians, Paul speaks about the transforming power of God in the life of the community of faith. Paul consistently reminds his audience that it is in Christ that all power truly resides. It is in Christ that we have been highly favored, chosen by God, and adopted into God’s family. God has done it all for us in Christ, thus inspiring us to genuine witness that is centered around lives of genuine worship.

 

This week we will be continuing our Ephesians: In Christ series by focusing on the first half of chapter two. In this passage, Paul reminds us that we have been transformed by God in Christ because God has made us alive. As you prepare for this week’s services, I would like to invite you to read and meditate on our passage, Ephesians 2:1-10. As you reflect, I would like to ask you to focus on the following questions:

 

How has God resurrected you to life in Christ?

How are you experiencing God’s great love and rich mercy today?

How do you understand God’s grace? Where do you see it right now?

What is the good God is calling you to do in your world?

 

 

Sometimes God’s work shows up in very powerful ways. But most times, for me, it is much more subtle, and only really understood in hindsight. For any of the spiritual summits we reach, I have found that it is God’s work in the valleys and on the climbs that has borne the most lasting fruit.

 

Yet, even before the summit, God’s grace is available to us. Even before we tread along in the valley, God’s mercy is available to us. Even before we begin our climb, our God’s love is available to us. This is possible because, in Christ, God has made us alive. Sisters and brothers, we are made alive in Christ, and this is a promise worth holding on to today and every day!!

 

God bless you all.

 

Love in Christ,

 

Pastor Hank (Ephesians 2:4-5a)