We have amazing technology today but sometimes we emphasize speed and ease rather than quality. The structure in the photo above was part of the rebuilding program of the city after the great fire of London in the 1700s and is named after Paul the Apostle who wrote the words for today’s passage. St Paul’s Cathedral was where the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana took place. Inside, we see the detailed work that went into construction during that time.

In reading Ephesians 3:1-13, the mystery of which Paul speaks is God’s plan for us through Christ Jesus that brings unity to all things in heaven and on earth. The knowledge of this openly declared secret was obtained by Paul through wisdom and revelation. Paul felt that he had the responsibility to make this mystery known to all and enable the power available.  

The mystical secret of salvation through Christ need not be hidden nor keep one from progressing forward but should be made available for all so they can step ahead as they walk along the path. There are untapped spiritual treasures for all but we need to enable the power available inside to be released in order for the Good News to be spread far and wide.

The church’s role in unfolding the plan of God is to give opportunities for all to use their God given gifts in building others up. To determine the steps to take to help others see the wisdom of God through the gospel message.

For example: One idea might include collecting thoughts and ideas to help spread the gospel message. What hobby do you have that gives you opportunities to share with others about faith? What movies have you seen that relate to God’s principles? What music do you listen to that inspires action towards the purpose of God? What book have you read that makes God’s wisdom more evident and available to everyone? What scripture do you use as a weapon against the enemy?

A joke I heard one time goes like this … One night a lady came home from her weekly prayer meeting, found she was being robbed, and shouted out, “Acts 2:38: ‘Repent and be baptized and your sins will be forgiven.'” The robber quickly gave up and the lady called the police. While handcuffing the criminal, a policeman said, “Gee man, you gave up pretty easily. How come you gave up so quickly?” The robber said, “She said she had an axe and two 38’s!”^*

This day with You Lord, help us to understand the power available and enable us to carry out Your plan for us. We are ONE in Christ through the mystical secret of salvation that need not be a secret any longer but available to all as we spread the Good News of Your love for us. We say “yes”to Your priceless treasure available for all for great progress in building every good thing around us and that make a difference in the lives of people. Amen

Photo – Taken in 1983 while on study/travel with a college group to London and nearby countryside.

*“Jokes – Your Daily Dose of Really Funny Jokes: Laugh Factory.” Jokes – Your Daily Dose of Really Funny Jokes | Laugh Factory, http://www.laughfactory.com/jokes.