He did this so that he might reconcile both to God in one body through the cross by which he put the hostility to death.

He came and proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.

Ephesians 2:16-17 CSB

Reconcile.

This is what Jesus does.

Reconciles.

Removes the barriers between us and God and makes a way for things to be right.

Reconciles.

Removes the barriers between people groups.

His message of peace with God was and is for everyone. 

Paul uses this phrase "to you who were far away and peace to those who were near" and in the context it's about the Jews and gentiles, those "close" to God, and those who knew little or nothing of Him.

This phrase has sat with me and it can feel personal. 

I do things, say things, think or dwell on things that can be far away from God, and sometimes close to Him.

But He reconciles me to Him whether I'm far away or close.

The cross is where that happened, and somehow where it still happens. 

Jesus continues to make a way for me, whether I'm close, or far away. 

He reconciles.

This is who He is. 

The one who brings us back, welcomes us in, welcomes us home, whether we're close right now, or far away.

#dearlyloved

#grace