Read: Ephesians 2:11-22
And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. (v. 17)
From my desk at Words of Hope, the country of Albania is about 5000 miles away. For me, traveling to the capital city of Tirana and sitting down with the writers of this month’s devotional series would take three flights, and almost a full 24 hours of travel—we live quite far away from each other!
However, today’s Bible reading says something quite different—our Albanian brothers and sisters in Christ aren’t far off at all. Did you catch that? In Christ we are very near to each other. Once, we were separated, cut off from Christ, alienated and strangers (v. 12). But now, as followers of Jesus, we “who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (v. 13). And in Jesus, he “has made us both one” (v. 14), we are “fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God” (v. 19). Together, all of us who were once far off are now near—both to Jesus himself and to each other.
As you read the devotionals this month, think about those who are far off and those who are near. Listen and learn from our brothers and sisters and consider how you can encourage those in your life who are far off spiritually.
As you pray, thank God for the blessing of being part of his family. Ask God to open your heart to both those who are far off and those who are near.
About the Author
Christy Prins
Christy Prins is the managing editor of the Words of Hope Daily Devotional. When Christy isn't reading devotional submissions, she's busy working in the garden, reading, and hanging out with her kids.
