The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Ephesians 2:11-15, “Therefore remember that formerly you, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called ‘Uncircumcision’ by the so-called ‘Circumcision,’ which is performed in the flesh by human hands—

12 remember that you were at that time separate from Christ, excluded from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.

13 But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

14 For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall,

15 by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace…”

Have you ever had any trouble looking back? Sometimes it’s fun just thinking about how things were in former days. Riding ponies on Sunday afternoon; looking forward to the school’s basketball game on Monday night; anticipating a visit from an old friend – yes, those things were fun-filled days! On the other hand, there were days we would just rather forget – days that are past and hopefully we’ll never experience again.

The Apostle Paul experienced such days. He was Jewish; therefore, he cites Israel’s experience in reverse order. Commencing with verse 13, Paul calls his kinsmen to a remembrance of their better days: “But now in Christ Jesus…”

Sometimes, we recall both kinds of days. We remember things and people who were kind and enjoyable to have around. Still, we remember things we’d rather forget altogether! But what do others think of us? What about right now? Are we living the life that demonstrates a “Jesus likeness”? Are we rejoicing that we know Him and want, more than ever, for others to know Him also? Then we would do well to demonstrate peace. Maybe we need to start “establishing peace” with everyone! Give it a try. It will reveal to ourselves and others just how sincere and peaceful we are.

Heartily in Christ,

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

United States of America

“We will never know that Christ is all we need

Until He becomes all that we have.”

–Corrie ten Boom