Author: Holly Reimer
Ephesians 1:3-14
Reflection: v. 10, ‘Bring all creation together’
Do you ever get tired of fighting, of being divided, of the ‘us versus them’ mentality? Fighting and divisiveness is exhausting and wears on our mental, emotional, and psychological well-being. We tell others and ourselves, ‘but I can’t give up’ for fear we will lose our ground and standing. We fight to a literal death over something because we honestly believe that it is easier to fight, kill, or demoralize than it is to find peace and life. We don’t want to lose what we have worked so hard to obtain. We live in fear of being ‘the least of these’ because there is no status or acclaim in being known as the least. Being united has always been God’s plan, God’s purpose for creation. No, it’s not always easy, but it takes a lot less energy and resources to build a bigger table than it does to create a higher fence.
The Scripture tells us that in Christ Jesus we will see God’s plan for unity to the fullest. But it is not something we are to sit idly by watching and waiting for God to do all the work. If all creation is to be joined together, we are to build relationships with one another—the least of these, the widow, orphan, sinner, tax collector, the homeless, immigrant, and transgender person. We are to be unified, which means we are called to sit with one another—especially the ‘other’ that we often shy away from. We are called to learn one another’s names, to learn and share in their joys and struggles. Christ demonstrated all of this for us. So, as we celebrate this Christmas season, may we not be too quick to fight and to build walls, but to make peace and add a place at the table.
Prayer Lord, may we live most fully into your purpose for all of creation.