The Ninth Sunday After Pentecost

In this week’s reading from Ephesians (3:1-13) Paul points to the great mystery of Christ, that “…people who have never heard of God and those who have heard of God all their lives (what I’ve been calling outsiders and insiders) stand on the same ground before God. They get the same offer, same help, same promises in Christ Jesus. The Message is accessible and welcoming to everyone, across the board.” (Eph. 3:6, The Message) Too often we view God’s love and mercy as scarce resources which must be protected and rationed so the deserving few will get their fair share. Paul and others understand that God’s mercy and love are abundant, limitless, and are offered to all. Likewise, none of us deserve the love and mercy of God, rather, it is all gift, a windfall. As such, our faithful response should involve gratitude and a desire to share the gift with others.