Christ’s Gifts

Christ’s Gifts

And God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and he gave him this authority for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything everywhere with his presence.

Ephesians 1:22-23

One Sunday when a young friend was worshipping with our family, she leaned over and asked, “Since this isn’t a Catholic church, why does the Apostles’ Creed say, ‘I believe in one holy catholic Church’?” I briefly explained that the word catholic means general or worldwide, as opposed to specific.

The Bible teaches that Jesus calls the church his bride and that the universal church includes all believers, gathered under the head of Christ. Being united with other believers is not something we do—Christ has already accomplished it. It is another one of his gracious gifts. We are miraculously united to other Christians because God has united us to his Son. The church is not our idea but God’s.

It’s comforting to read in John 17 that the night Christ was betrayed, his prayer to God the Father was for the salvation and protection of his church. What amazing love! If he could be so concerned about his church immediately before his incomprehensible suffering, imagine his concern now as he sits in heaven at God’s right hand.

God’s church is both visible and invisible. The visible is what humans can see—people worshipping God in church buildings and homes all around the world. But we do not know who in their innermost being worships him and who does not. God alone knows our hearts, and he sees the invisible church—those who love him and obey him. He uses these people to spread his Good News and build up the faith of his children.

Father,

Thank you that even in heaven Jesus prays for your church here on earth—for our joy, protection, purity, and unity. May we be faithful members of your invisible church, no matter where we worship and serve you visibly. Amen.