Rich, deep, and enlightening are the words I would use to describe the text of today’s 2nd reading (Ephesians 1:3-14).
Paul is writing to the first Christians of Ephesus, and he has much to tell them – much about God and much about themselves.
Reading again this long reflection, I find it a description of who a Christian is.
The words used by the apostle Paul reveal our true nature:
– Before the world was made, the Father chose us to live through love in his presence.
– He made us his adopted children.
– He gave us this as a free gift.
– Through Jesus we gain our freedom, the forgiveness of our sins.
– He has let us know the mystery of his plan.
– In Christ we are claimed as God’s own, chosen from the beginning.
– Chosen to be people who put their hopes in Christ.
– We have been stamped with the seal of the Holy Spirit.
As we live, from day to day, we may not often take the time to ponder this extraordinary reality.
If we did, the whole atmosphere that permeates our daily lives could be completely transformed.
Adoption by God, gift, freedom, forgiveness, hope…
More than enough to live with peace of mind, to live in serenity, relying on this God who claims us as his own,
“the Father who has blessed us with all the spiritual blessings of heaven”.
Note: Another text is available on a different theme, in French, at: 15è dimanche de l’année B -2024