Thursday, July 17th | Ephesians 2.11-22

Passage:
11 So, then, remember that at one time you were Gentiles in the flesh ​— ​called “the uncircumcised” by those called “the circumcised,” which is done in the flesh by human hands. 12 At that time you were without Christ, excluded from the citizenship of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of promise, without hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus, you who were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who made both groups one and tore down the dividing wall of hostility. In his flesh, 15 he made of no effect the law consisting of commands and expressed in regulations, so that he might create in himself one new man from the two, resulting in peace. 16 He did this so that he might reconcile both to God in one body through the cross by which he put the hostility to death. 17 He came and proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So, then, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God’s household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building, being put together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you are also being built together for God’s dwelling in the Spirit. -- Ephesians 2:11-22 (CSB)

Song:
Peace by Ed Cash

Lyrics:
When my mind is like a battlefield
And my heart is overcome by fear
And hope seems like a ship that's lost at sea

My enemies on every side
And I'm tempted to run and hide
Your gentle whisper reaches out to me

(You give me) Peace
(That) Holds me when I'm broken
Sweet peace
That passes understanding
When the whole wide world is crashing down
I fall to my knees
And breathe in (Your peace)

Fiery arrows whistling
The terror of the night sets in
But I can feel Your angels all around

I am resting underneath
The shelter of Your mighty wings
Your promises are where my hope is found

I remember who You are
You're the God who's never far
So I will not be afraid
God You always keep me safe in Your arms

I remember who You are
You're the God who's never ever far away
So I will not be afraid
God You always You always keep me safe

I breathe You I breathe You in
Take a deep breath and be still
And know that You are God alone

Prayer:
O God, you declare your almighty power chiefly in showing mercy and pity: Grant us the fullness of your grace, that we, running to obtain your promises, may become partakers of your heavenly treasure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.