REMOVING THE WALLS
For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility.
Ephesians 2:14 (NIV)
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV)
One of the first skills I learned in the Marine Corps was how to build a fighting position for protection. Fighting positions are designed behind walls of sandbags, bricks and wood to shield us from danger. In combat, those walls would save lives. However, in relationships, the barriers we build often do the opposite. They can show up as avoiding difficult conversations, refusing to forgive, or convincing ourselves we don't need anyone. I've learned that the strongest walls aren't built with sandbags and lumber—they're built with pride, fear and unresolved hurt. We convince ourselves that these barriers protect us from being hurt again, but over time, they keep others from getting close enough to help us heal. Eventually, those walls can isolate us from God and the people who care about us most.
Paul reminds us that Jesus came to tear down walls. The hostility between Jews and Gentiles was destroyed through Christ. More importantly, the barrier between sinful people and a holy God was removed at the cross. Notice, Paul doesn't simply say Jesus gives peace. He says Jesus is our peace. Real peace isn't found in avoiding conflict or pretending problems don't exist. Peace is found in a restored relationship with God. When we experience that peace, we become capable of extending it to others.
Because Christ reconciled us to God, He also calls us to pursue reconciliation with others. The Gospel doesn't simply change our eternal destination—it transforms the way we live, love and relate to one another. Reconciliation requires humility to admit when we're wrong, courage to take the first step toward healing, and grace to forgive when it's difficult. God has not only reconciled us to Himself—He has entrusted us with the ministry of reconciliation. We're called to be bridge builders, not wall builders, in a world full of division.
APPLICATION: Ask God to reveal any walls that have formed in your heart. Is there a relationship that needs forgiveness, healing or a difficult conversation? Take one practical step this week toward reconciliation.
PRAYER: Father, thank You for tearing down the wall that separated me from You. Reveal any barriers in my own heart and give me the courage to pursue peace with others. Make me a person who reflects the reconciliation and grace I've received through Christ. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?