Ephesians 2:19-22
So then, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household. You have been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the Cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you too are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for making us a part of your dwelling place. King David once wanted to make you a temple, but you left that for Solomon to build. In your word, you tell us how all believers are the building blocks you use to make your home. Stone needs to be chiseled and prepared to be a block, so as we wander in this wilderness of our life, we face many challenges, and each one shapes us a little more. You selected us through your word, and in our baptisms, your Holy Spirit set us aside to be part of your dwelling place. Jesus made it possible for all people to be part of your temple when he became like us and suffered on the cross for the sins of all people. But it is only by faith that we become part of your temple; we are all joined together by your Holy Spirit and set on the foundation of Christ.
Lord, it is your will for all people to come to know you, that they would be with you forever in eternity. However, some reject your love and forgiveness; because they reject you, they are not part of your temple. So we pray that you would forgive us all our sins and strengthen our faith, so will we share your love and mercy with those who still do not know you so that they, too, might become a building block. Bring all believers to you that we will be part of your everlasting temple in heaven. Amen
Written by Pastor Roger Emmons
You joined with all believers, selected, and set aside by God’s grace to be part of his everlasting temple.