Listen to this devotion
Walls crumble under the cross of Christ.
In the Word
For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility … (Ephesians 2:14 RSV).
Of the Word
A wall is being built on the edge of Bethlehem. Armed soldiers man the checkpoint. The wall is a sign of hostility, mistrust, and fear between peoples. The wall in Bethlehem is made of steel and stone. The walls we sometimes build between ourselves and others may be made of fear, prejudice, pride, or selfishness.
In Christ, however, these walls crumble to dust. St. Paul reminded the early Christians: You are all God’s children by believing in Christ Jesus. Clearly, all of you who were baptized in Christ’s name have clothed yourselves with Christ. There are neither Jews nor Greeks, slaves nor free people, males nor females. You are all the same in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:26–28 GW).
Faith in Christ is the glue that holds believers together. Gone are distinctions of race, gender, and economic status. Now we relate to fellow Christians with love, acceptance, and forgiveness. We are dearly beloved children of one Heavenly Father.
Walking with my Lord
Lord Jesus, You died for the sins of all people. Now all who believe in You are one family. Forgive me when I’m tempted to set myself apart and look down on others. Help me understand and reach out an open hand. In Your name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Walking with My Lord. Author: Donna Streufert. 13/30 ©2007 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
Scripture quotations marked RSV are taken from the REVISED STANDARD VERSION, Thomas Nelson and Sons, New York, NY. Copyright © 1952.
Scripture quotations marked GW are taken from GOD’S WORD, God’s Word to the Nations Bible Society, Grand Rapids, MI. Copyright © 1995.
