Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,

Eph. 1:1

Paul squeezes so much into so few words.  I love this opening greeting to the brothers and sisters in Ephesus.  First off, Paul.  This is not just a name but stands for what he is writing to them about.  He is now one of them, with a family name, a history, an ordinary human being, a brother indeed.

I, too, feel most loved when I ponder again how a very ordinary person, a sinner, can be a carrier of the love of God. That is why I can introduce myself as Don.  It opens a door of welcome for all who believe.

Paul’s arm of fellowship is wide open.  He is “an apostle” of Jesus Christ.  I love that “an.”  This revered man is overjoyed by the fact that he is considered one of the followers of Jesus, along with those to whom he is writing and to all mankind. So, while taking his place among all saved persons, he rejoices in their common salvation, a gift so great it is hard to comprehend.

His greeting goes on.  He bravely acknowledges that God almighty chose him to be an apostle of Jesus Christ.  It was certainly not his own doing.  In fact, that is the last thing in the world Saul the zealous Jew could possibly imagine.  Saul did not choose Jesus, but Jesus chose Saul.  That makes all the difference.  Paul and those to whom he is writing all shared this personal testimony – they are in Christ because they, too, were called by the Lord himself.

I recall vividly how, as a young white missionary, I found peace in my soul by repenting of my sins which the Holy Spirit revealed to me.  What a glorious moment.  I found myself standing all by myself before the Father praising.   Then, I was astounded to realize that I was not alone, not at all.  Around me were brothers and sisters, black and white, educated and uneducated, you name it. I found myself in a family of love.  All tribal and cultural superiority faded, I was one of those who were chosen by God to be there.  And I wanted to be nowhere else!