Family Tie

Read: Ephesians 2:11-22

The whole building , being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. --- Ephesians 2:21

The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 23-25
Acts 21:18-40

An elderly man who visited an art gallery was deeply moved by a painting that portrayed Christ on the cross. It was so realistic in depicting the suffering of the Savior that his heart was filled with gratitude for the great price the Lord Jesus paid for his redemption. With tears trickling down his cheeks, he exclaimed, "Bless Him! I love Him! I love Him!"

Other visitors standing nearby wondered what the man was talking about. One person walked over and looked at the painting. Soon he too felt deep emotion welling up in his heart. Turning to the old man, he gave him a firm handshake and said, "So do I! I love Him too!" The scene was repeated as a third man and then a fourth walked over, gazed at the painting, and exclaimed, "I love Him too!" Although these men were from different churches, they felt a common bond because of their faith in Christ.

As believers, we need an awareness of our spiritual unity with other Christians. We need to focus on the fundamentals on which we agree --- such as our love for the Savior who died for us --- rather than bicker about lesser issues.

Regardless of sincere disagreements, we as blood-bought believers should recognize that we have a strong family tie in Christ. --- Richard De Haan

Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love!
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above. --- Fawcett

AS WE DRAW NEAR TO CHRIST WE ARE DRAWN NEAR TO EACH OTHER.