Reflections on Ephesians 1 and 2

C.S. Lewis emphasized that grace is what truly distinguishes Christianity. Grace is not about our efforts or achievements; rather, it is God’s decision to save us out of His own love and goodness. We do not earn this grace—instead, we receive it through faith, by simply accepting God’s gift with open hands. Even our faith is a gift from God, leaving no room for boasting. Faith is much like a beggar reaching out, humbly receiving what is given.

Once grace takes root in our lives, we are transformed from beggars into God’s masterpiece, created anew for good works that God has already planned for us. By His kindness, we are made new and called to a life filled with purpose.

Faith in the Midst of Uncertainty and Pain

Picture yourself in a quiet moment—perhaps in your car, or at home—eyes brimming with tears, wrestling with the ache of loneliness or pain. Maybe you utter a hesitant prayer, asking, “God, are you here? Are you with me?”

It’s in these raw, honest moments that our faith is most deeply tested. We encounter suffering, uncertainty, heartbreak, and, through it all, seek evidence of God’s presence.

Life does not spare anyone from suffering. Every person, at some point, experiences pain—whether it is loss, disappointment, illness, anxiety, or injustice. The world and our own lives can feel deeply broken.

It can be tempting to believe that strong faith will spare us from hardship, that God will intervene and rescue us from every trouble. Yet even those with deep faith encounter pain. Sometimes, God doesn’t heal as we expect. The illness remains, the grief endures, the wounds persist.

But suffering is not evidence of God’s absence. Rather, it is a natural part of life in a world that is still unfinished, still longing for wholeness.

The Depth of Faith and the Light of Grace

True faith is not the belief that God will always change our circumstances. Sometimes, it takes even greater faith to trust in God’s goodness, kindness, and presence when darkness remains, and miracles do not arrive.

“Discovering God’s Presence in the Shadows”—encourages us to seek God’s presence even in seasons of doubt, fear, and suffering. God’s love is often revealed not through dramatic signs, but in ordinary moments, in steadfast care, and in the gradual light of grace that dispels our shadows. Doubt is not weakness; it is often a normal part of the journey of faith and can lead us to deeper trust and unexpected encounters with God.

Blessings, Len 22/8/2025