Ephesians 2:1-2
You were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once lived, following the course of this world, following the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work among those who are disobedient.
Reflection
This is the first installment in a series of reflections about Ephesians 2:1-10. This is a central text in our Christian faith and one that prompts a lot of thought and reflection…so stay tuned! Today’s verses provide a stark Lenten reminder that we walk through this life with many “dangers, toils and snares”, in the words of a familiar hymn. I’m not sure who the ruler of the power of the air is, though some scholars suggest it’s probably the devil (compare Ephesians 4:27, 6:11.) Perhaps the Ephesians would have been more familiar with this expression. At any rate, we’re offered a classic Lenten passage, inviting us to turn from that which separates us from God back to the God of rich love and mercy, as we’ll see in the succeeding verses. So, for today, what does it mean for us to make a choice for that which is living, compared with that which brings spiritual death? Coupled with our earlier text from Psalm 107, Paul reminds us here that we’re always faced with choices. What sorts of good, sound, life-giving choices are yours this day?
Prayer
Loving God, walk with us. Help us choose life. Help us choose you. Amen.
Art: Green Lanscape, found here.
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