The Consequences
Scripture Reading — Ephesians 1:15-23
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people. . . .
My son-in-law wondered how we could spend so much on groceries. He compared our grocery bill as empty nesters to their grocery bill for a family of five, and he was puzzled. The next time they came to visit, I suggested that he watch the traffic flow of my grandchildren. Within minutes of arriving, the pantry door had been opened, and across the room the fridge door was also open. He smiled and shook his head.
I love that my grandkids feel at home and that they know how to access foods they want and enjoy. They know that they have that privilege at Grandma’s house. And so do their parents as well as friends who show up.
As Paul prays for the Ephesians, he knows this is the kind of information they need. They need spiritual knowledge and understanding as their hearts begin to fill with the great blessings Jesus has for them. When Jesus challenges his followers to join him in the work he is doing (John 14:12), he says they will do more than he has done as they learn how to access the power they are given.
The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is offered to us. We need to understand how incredibly great our inheritance is. We need to open Scripture and find the amazing riches that are ours to use, just as my grandkids know how to open the pantry door.
Lord, light up our hearts with your love and grace, that we may be filled with your fullness. Amen.
About the author — Beth Fellinger
Pastor Beth Fellinger is a wife, mother, and grandmother who has more than 40 years of experience in pastoral ministry. She and her husband, Barry, have created a missional community in their neighborhood called the Ugly Couch Cafe. From serving coffee at a blue picnic table on their front lawn, to praying with neighbors, to hosting faith gatherings on a weekly basis, the Ugly Couch Cafe has grown—and nothing gives Beth greater joy than introducing people to Jesus.
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