April 30 Ephesians 3:14-19
DAILY READING
Ephesians 3:14-19
REFLECTION
Deep & Wide
by Elaine Pierce
You've all sung the children's song, haven't you? Deep and wide, deep and wide, there's a fountain flowing deep and wide -- repeat with enthusiastic motions. [Aside: I found this fascinating story of who wrote Deep & Wide and the lyrics that have been lost in obscurity that really make the song so much more meaningful - take a few minutes to read this post and especially take a few minutes to listen to the 4-minute video at the very end of the post.
It's a fun song to sing, even for grownups, but let's put "deep and wide" into context in these seven verses. Paul is praying for this new church in the city of Ephesians that their faith in Christ is strengthened and deepened. What is the result of faith that is "deep and wide"? As we grow in faith, in knowledge, and in power through the Holy Spirit, Christ Jesus will be glorified "throughout all generations." Not just today, not just tomorrow, but for years to come. The roots we establish today will bear fruit for our children, our children's children, and children we will never meet in this lifetime.
This process of growth happens from the inside out. Paul prays that we will be "strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith." Do you notice that Paul doesn't expect you to deepen your faith as a "solo" Christian? He is praying this prayer for the church, and he encourages them "together wi