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The same day that I took the picture of my daughter's house across the field, I didn't go straight home. Instead, I decided to go up the hill and to extend my walk with Buddy around the perimeter of the development. As we went up Maverick and turned onto Bronco, I took some pictures and asked the owner of the property (John) if I could use them. Thankfully, he agreed and today I get to share them with you. Initially, I wanted them because they reminded me of the trains my father had when I was a small child. My father had a put together about eight sheets of plywood on wooden supports and had several trains running at one time. He had train stations, several distinct train sets and every sort of prop you could think of. I don't recall it all because I was only about five or so, but when he allowed me into his room to see the trains, I knew I was in for a treat!!! Every so often, he would even stage collisions and I remember how magnificent it was to see them!!! It was a sight that has stayed with me over fifty years, and the memory of watching those trains has morphed into something else- a way of looking at the world. I like what Paul has to say about how Christians should "see things" and every single time I read this chapter it is thrilling!!! Hope you have the same feeling...
Ephesians, Chapter 3
1 For this cause I, Paul, am the prisoner of Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles, 2 if it is so that you have heard of the administration of that grace of God which was given me toward you; 3 how that by revelation the mystery was made known to me, as I wrote before in few words, 4 by which, when you read, you can perceive my understanding in the mystery of Christ; 5 which in other generations was not made known to the children of men, as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit; 6 that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, and fellow members of the body, and fellow partakers of his promise in Christ Jesus through the Good News, 7 of which I was made a servant, according to the gift of that grace of God which was given me according to the working of his power. 8 To me, the very least of all saints, was this grace given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 and to make all men see what is the administration of the mystery which for ages has been hidden in God, who created all things through Jesus Christ; 10 to the intent that now through the assembly the manifold wisdom of God might be made known to the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places, 11 according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord; 12 in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him. 13 Therefore I ask that you may not lose heart at my troubles for you, which are your glory.
God has given us an entire world to enjoy. With sights and sounds and stay with us over the decades. We gradually understand more and more of what life is "all about" as we become sentient and as we grow spiritually we can begin to understand the spiritual as well. Through nature God has revealed himself and through his prophets and apostles he has given us understanding of his plans to bring us closer to him. And that is what Paul is referring to- The Eternal Purpose and Plan of God--- for us!!! Open your mind, think about it- and then open your Bible. As you read and pray, God will help you understand. He will eventually become so close to you that everything you do, everywhere you go - your entire life will become entwined with him. So, like everything else - even trains lead you back to God. Get on board, the heavenly express is about to leave....