Ephesians 2:14-18 (VOICE)
He is the embodiment of our peace, sent once and for all to take down the great barrier of hatred and hostility that has divided us so that we can be one. He offered His body on the sacrificial altar to bring an end to the law’s ordinances and dictations that separated Jews from the outside nations. His desire was to create in His body one new humanity from the two opposing groups, thus creating peace. Effectively the cross becomes God’s means to kill off the hostility once and for all so that He is able to reconcile them both to God in this one new body.
The Great Preacher of peace and love came for you, and His voice found those of you who were near and those who were far away. By Him both have access to the Father in one Spirit.
We can’t talk about the peace that Jesus was to bring forth as he came to earth without recognizing just 33 years later what he did to bring about peace in his death as well. Jesus was and is and will forever be the embodiment of peace. But this peace goes beyond the hostility between people, it is the shalom that he will bring with him when he comes again. When all will creation be restored and his desire to create one body will come to fruition.
This world is full up of hostility and pain and suffering. We can’t escape that. But what Jesus promises is not cheap peace in this current world. He is offering peace in a holistic, mind-body-spiritual-relational way today. Right now. When we ask for it, he will show up. It is concrete and available today. As he forgives and heals us and our relationships, he reigns as Prince of Peace.
Is there a blind spot in your own life where you need to ask forgiveness or healing and allow Jesus to bring peace? Jesus wants to restore us and is waiting. No judgments, just grace and forgiveness given with the widest open arms ready to bring you in.
Lectio Divina Practice
As you walk through the Lectio Divina today, read the scripture above and meditate on it, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal himself to you.
Family Moments
Read Ephesians 2:14-18 together. You can experience peace right now! Jesus is in the business of restoring relationships. Is there someone in your family you need to ask for forgiveness? Maybe it’s even your children. Demonstrate what forgiving someone looks like. Share about a time you had to ask for forgiveness. God is a good and faithful God and sent Jesus so that the world’s brokenness can be repaired!