Ephesians 2:17
“He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near”.
The words "He came" are so comforting. God initiates the relationship. He comes to us. We aren't aware how much He does this. We will be shocked when we learn how much He was there. If a parent could check in with their kid any time throughout the day they would. God has that ability.
David said, "I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are Your works, and I know this very well", (Psalm 139:14). This is true for all of us, we are "fearfully and wonderfully made". God created all of us and He delights in us. I'm sure He smiles all day long.
Unfortunately sin has put doubt and condemnation in us, so we are insecure. As we walk with Christ He puts confidence in us. He wants us to be like David and be aware that we are "wonderfully made". That's a part of His purpose for all of us.
The next part of today's verse is that He "preached peace" to us. Sin has put a chasm in between us and God. He came and died to heal that rift. For us to have peace with God we need to abide by His salvation plan. Basically we agree with Him, which is we are sinful in need of forgiveness. If we agree with that and are willing to do what He says then we're are forgiven and at peace forever.
God is no longer a distant observer, but our Father. Jesus comes into our hearts and lives there. He now influences us all day long. We usually aren't aware of all He does. We feel His peace, "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful", (Colossians 3:15). His Spirit also gives us confidence that we are His children, "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God", (Romans 8:16). That inner fellowship with God is so wonderful.
He also protects us. "He guards the steps of His faithful ones, but the wicked perish in darkness; for by his own strength shall no man prevail", (I Samuel 2:9). He has saved us from so many pitfalls, most of which we never saw. Some we have witnessed. Thank You God.
We are also His messengers to tell others about Him. He uses us to bear witness that "He came" and is still coming. All they have to do is accept His invitation.
Unfortunately the world, the flesh and the devil have an intent on disobedience and destruction. The internet has much evil that wrecks many. They spread lies about God and His ways. They fog up many issues and blur lines. God seeks to clarify and inform. He does this with us constantly. He also wants to use us to do so with others.
Thank You Lord for coming and preaching peace. We love the life You've given to us. Help us to reach and assist others.