Devotions: No Longer an Outcast

 

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household,

Ephesians 2:19 New American Standard Bible 1995

 

This is one of my favorite chapters of the Bible. The first ten verses talk about how we all were once sinners and enemies of God, but because of the work and grace of Christ we have been made alive and part of God’s family. We have forgiveness and righteousness because of that. It has nothing to do with our work or merits, but is all because of Christ so we have no reason to brag or look down on others. Prior to His work, only the Jews were accepted, but now all who believe are part of God’s family. Jesus removed the barriers and divisions that once separated us, from God and from each other.

So now we are no longer strangers, foreigners or immigrants, but citizens of God’s country and family along with all who believe. We don’t have to have a certain parentage or adhere to certain rituals. It is all through the work and grace of Christ! God calls us His children because we believe in the sacrifice Christ made for us, out of His love for us. No matter the language or cultural barriers we face, we are accepted by God and brothers and sisters of all believers. No matter how we feel within our own families or communities, even if we don’t fit in anywhere else, we belong in the family of God. We can have different political, food, parenting, or cultural preferences and yet still have unity and acceptance with other believers. No matter how much we mess up or the struggles we face, we are forgiven and accepted by God because of the saving work of Christ through our faith and repentance. We fit in. We belong. We are accepted because of Christ.

Do you feel like a misfit or outcast? Do you long to be accepted? If you believe that Jesus died for your sins on the cross and have repented of those sins, desiring to live for Him, then you are accepted. You belong in His family no matter how others treat you. Take some time to thank God for what He has done for you, for His amazing love and grace.

  

 

 

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