But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when

we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ

and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he

might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.

(Ephesians 2:4-7)

In the depths of our spiritual destitution, bound by our transgressions, we find a beacon of hope in

Ephesians 2:4-7. Through these verses, the apostle Paul unveils the profound transformation that God's

love and mercy effects in our lives—a transformation not earned, but given; not merited, but freely bestowed through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Have you ever considered the depth of God's love for you? Paul speaks to the Ephesians—and to

us—reminding us that despite our spiritual deadness, God's rich mercy and great love have made us

alive with Christ. It's a love that doesn't wait for us to become worthy; it's a love that reaches into our

unworthiness and breathes life into our bones. We come to Him, “Just as I am, without one plea.”

This passage assures us that our salvation is not a result of our efforts but a gift of God’s grace. The

same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in us, raising us from the death of sin to a new

life of righteousness. We are not just forgiven; we are made new, given a place of honor, seated with

Christ in the heavenly realms. This is not a future promise only, but a present reality. In Christ, we have a

new vantage point, a new citizenship, a new identity.

The purpose of this divine generosity is clear: that for all eternity, the "incomparable riches of his grace"

will be displayed in us. God's kindness in Jesus is not just for our benefit but for His glory. Our lives are to

be a testament to the grace that saved us, a showcase of His mercy and kindness.

As we reflect on these truths, let us be moved to worship and gratitude. Let us live as those who have

been raised with Christ, walking in the good works God prepared for us, knowing that our every step is a

testament to His grace. And as we look forward to the coming ages, let us anticipate with joy the

continuing revelation of God's kindness toward us in Christ Jesus; for in His grace, we are indeed

lavished in His love forever.

Jim Connell

Jim is the founder and retired director of Lexington Rescue Mission and the author of JesusIsLordBlog.com.