In him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit. – Ephesians 2:22

I remember that many years ago one of my sons asked, "Daddy, where does God live?" While I still remember his question, I don't recall my answer. I think it was something about heaven. Today I would likely answer that God lives in his heart, in my heart, and in the hearts of everyone who loves him.
Our text today provides another answer to the question. God lives in his church, the body of believers. God has designed and built a wonderful home for himself. While it is true that God lives in heaven and in the hearts of his people, God also lives among his people. He has built this wonderful home in our neighborhood, and it is filled with all who follow Jesus. The church has as its cornerstone none other than Jesus Christ. Its foundation is his Word as proclaimed by the apostles and prophets, who have made known the wonders of his love and grace throughout history.
This wonderful house of God is a marvelous temple, a true mansion beyond our imagining. But the most incredible thing about God's house is that you and I are invited to live in it. We are not simply invited as visitors and guests, but in Christ we are part of the family--brothers and sisters of Jesus. We are heirs--"heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ" (Romans 8:17). Welcome to the church--welcome to the family.

REFLECTION

How do you feel when someone invites you into their home to share a meal or to join them for a special celebration? What does it mean to you to know that you are an heir of God and co-heirs with Christ?

Prayer

Father, thank you for building your house and inviting us to live and work with you in it. We pray that you will continue to bless and guide your church.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

PRAYER REQUESTS FOR THE WEEK FEBRUARY 5TH, 2011

Carolyn Taylor: [ long time friend of Billie Detroy] passed away after battling cancer. 
JoAnn Leeming: [Karen Shorter’s Cousin] in final stages of lymphoma.

But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds. – Psalm 73:28

Paul Nickel
Director of Christian Education
Our Savior Lutheran Church