Wednesday 18th December
Read Ephesians 3:7-9
“I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.” (NIVUK)
The language Paul uses reflects a maturity many of us may fail to reach. Humility and exaltation. Paul knows he is low beyond belief. This is not false modesty. He knows that his sins in persecuting the church are deep beyond measure. As Jesus said though, those who have been forgiven much are that much more grateful.
Yet there is also an awareness of blessing and exaltation. Paul appreciates how privileged he is to be graced with the task of telling others about Jesus. He knows he has been transformed completely by God’s grace and power and all that he does models and extends the kindness of God.
That transformation is no Plan B. It was decided upon in ages past, before the creation of the world. God always intended that His creation would be transformed and renewed, beginning with His people. Jesus was the first-fruits of that ancient plan. Humble and exalted. Paul simply serves his King gratefully and graciously and filled with awe. He expresses a maturity in Jesus that is an example for us to follow.
