Ephesians 1:1-2
“I, Paul, am under God’s plan as an apostle, a special agent of Christ Jesus, writing to you faithful believers in Ephesus. I greet you with the grace and peace poured into our lives by God our Father and our Master, Jesus Christ.”
“This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus. I am writing to God’s holy people in Ephesus, who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus. May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.”
Paul opens his letters to the churches with a blessing. This one has two parts. Paul rejoices in being called as apostle to the Lord Jesus. It is the great rock of his being from which he looks out on life and serves others. Also, Paul blesses the Ephesians with the kind of grace and peace only the Lord can provide. It will become the engine of their faith.
Blessings like this are out of favor. They are critically received as arrogant and politically incorrect, as if they imply absolutism. They are maligned as only words when deeds are called for. Yet many lonely souls would welcome such encouragement. Let us be more humbly bold in blessing others. Ask God to direct our blessings with sensitivity and grace, that his love may pour out onto the lost and lonely.
Lord, grant me wisdom and power to bless others freely. Let resulting power and comfort be from you alone. Give me faith in your willingness to bless through me. May I bless freely and frequently always for your glory.