Ephesians 2:1-10-Our Way of Life
I found myself struck by a phrase I heard quoted from a contemporary Bible translation. When I Googled the phrase "our way of life" to locate the passage, many of the results focused on things people felt were threatening their expected way of living. Prominent among the perceived threats were climate change, terrorism, and government policies.
Paul reminded the Christians in Ephesus of the remarkable way God had transformed their lives. "God who is rich in mercy, out of the great love with which he loved us even when we were dead through our trespasses made us alive together with Christ-by grace you have been saved" (Ephesians 2:4-5). The result is that we are created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared to be our way of life.
Doing good works, helping others, giving, loving, and serving in Jesus's name-these are to be our way of life. They are not optional activities for believers, but the very reason God has given us life in Christ.
In a changing world, God has called and empowered us to pursue a life that reaches out to others and honors Him. Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:1-6)