March 15th Reflection by Bill Lynch

Ephesians 1:3-6 (NRSV)
Blessed be God, who chose us in Christ
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.

Reflection
A couple of things come to mind to me in this passage. I have always liked, wondered and pondered names of churches that contained "in Christ" or "in Jesus." The second thought is the mystery of divine election.

The Church does exist in Christ. As a church Christ is the center, the cornerstone and even the Head. So, as a Church we do exist in Christ. We are chosen and hear the gospel and respond to the message in faith. We exist in Jesus who has taken us before the Father to be his Chosen People.

It's no wonder that Paul breaks out into a litany of praise in this passage. It's fantastic to know how special and unique and loved we are as we exist in Christ. We have been elected and confirm our election with praise and thanksgiving for all God has done. Thanks be to God!

Prayer
Jesus, I rejoice in being in the Church and in Christ, chosen, elected, called and sent to praise your loving acts of kindness today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen