At The Way, Pastor Laura was bringing a message out of Ephesians 2, and I was taking notes as usual. We came across a two-word phrase that caught my attention. That was two weeks in a row that my attention was drawn to a two-word phrase.
“But now …” in verse 13 was the one that got my attention that Sunday. (The Sunday before it was “But God …” in verse 4.)
The “But now” phrase led to another two-word phrase in verse 13 that really made me stop and think – “…brought near …”
There are a lot of big words in the Scriptures. And there are a lot of big words when you study theology. I sometimes struggle with those big words, trying to bring them down to my level of understanding. I know I should get excited when I read or study those big words, but, honestly, it is the little words that often make my soul soar into the heavenlies.
“But God ….” Before God ever created mankind, He knew mankind would need a “But God.” “But God” set up the plan of salvation. “But God” brought Jesus to pay the penalty for our sin, our shame, our punishment.
“But now ….” Everything has changed. “But now” God has provided a new life. He didn’t just scrub up the old exterior and give us a shiny new look. He changed our hearts, taking out the old heart of stone and replacing it with a new heart, a heart that is being conformed (made like) the heart of our Savior and LORD.
“Brought near ….” If there is one two-word phrase that thrills my heart, it is “brought near.” We are not away from God anymore. We are “brought near” to His precious side. We are “brought near” to His heart of grace, mercy, and goodness. We are “brought near” to His presence for all eternity.
Little words. Giant promises! Changing our lives for all eternity.