Paul’s prayer reflects his desire for the people of the church to understand the work of Christ and the love of Christ and that they would become more like Christ in their character.

Old Testament Text: Ezekiel 43:1-5

Paul, in our passage, frames our Christian existence by speaking of the direction of God’s redemptive work in Christ, which culminates in the New Heavens and Earth. Keeping this in mind helps us to keep this life and its trouble in perspective.

Old Testament Text: Micah 4:1-3

The comforting presence of Christ is known through faith in him as this faith is worked out in the church, the temple of God on earth.

Old Testament Lesson: Isaiah 56:1-8