Week 4 | Tuesday
Tuesday – From Far to Near
Written by Joshua Lester (Pickerington Campus)
Ephesians 2:13
“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.”
When I’m on a trip to another state, I often open Google Maps to see how long it would take to drive home from wherever I am. There’s something about seeing that distance spelled out that makes me realize just how far I really am – and what it would take to get back. In Ephesians, Paul provides us with a similar perspective. He has already reminded us of how far we once were. Before Christ, we were far away from God, separated from Him and everything He offers us. We were “without hope and without God” in this world. That, apart from Jesus, we were once far away from the promises and security of God, searching for a way to come near.
But the only way you could come near from being far away is by the blood of Christ. No amount of good works, church attendance, or rule-following could have ever brought you back to Christ. Jesus, who lived a perfect and sinless life, gave himself as a ransom for all by dying on the cross for the sins of the world. Through Jesus is our way near.
This means that you and I can not come near any effort on our own part. No amount of good works, church attendance, or rule-following could ever bring us near to God. The way near to God was made possible by the blood of Christ. Jesus, who lived a perfect and sinless life, gave Himself as a ransom for all, dying on the cross for the sins of the world. Through Him, and Him alone, we are brought near. The distance has been covered. The way home has been made.
Reflection Questions:
- In what ways have you (or do you) tried to “find your way back” to God through your own efforts?
- How does it change your perspective to know that only Jesus can bring you near to God?
- What does it mean for you today to live as someone who has been “brought near” by the blood of Christ?
Prayer Prompt:
“God, thank you for bringing me near to You through the blood of Christ. My own efforts would never bring me near to You. Thank you for making a way.”