In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ. . . .

— Ephesians 3:4

My two oldest grandsons are quite capable of eating an adult-size meal at a fast-food restaurant, but when they are at McDonalds, something changes. There is a choice they have to make: Should they ­order an adult meal or the smaller, kids’ “Happy Meal,” with its mystery toy inside? The draw of the mystery toy usual­ly wins out. I love watching them open—or, I should say, tear into—the package to discover the mystery inside. Their patience is definitely stretched.

The apostle Paul is introducing us to something like that in Ephesians. We are invited to open a mystery package and peer inside to discover what God is sharing with us. There is more for us to know, and the wonder and mystery being offered to all people points to a new season in the great story of God’s love for the world. God’s plan includes everyone. God’s inheritance is for all who believe.

In this letter we discover that we are adopted, chosen, and called to serve shoulder to shoulder with all other followers of Jesus. We discover what it means to be saved by grace, and we are no longer ­strangers to God’s plan. As we reach in for more, we discover the joy of becoming fully alive in Christ.

Lord and God, thank you for the truths laid out in your Word and for the amazing mystery you have revealed to us in Christ. Help us discover that all who believe in Jesus as Savior are part of your family and your inheritance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.