Our Identity as Fellow Citizens with the Saints

Hey there, fellow travelers on this wild journey of faith!

Today, I want to chat about something that hits close to home—literally. It’s that verse from Ephesians 2:19 that reminds us, “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” Yeah, let’s unpack that gem together.

Imagine this: you’ve been wandering through life, feeling like a stranger in a foreign land. Maybe you’ve been searching for a place to belong, a community to call home. Well, guess what? You’re not alone, my friend. You’re part of something much bigger—a family, a community, a kingdom.

What does it mean to be “fellow citizens with the saints?”

Let’s break it down, shall we?

First off, it’s all about identity. You see, when we accept Christ into our lives, we’re no longer outsiders looking in; we’re insiders, part of the family. It’s like being granted dual citizenship—earthly and heavenly. Pretty cool, huh?

But here’s the kicker: our citizenship isn’t based on where we were born or who our parents are. Nope! It’s based on something much deeper—our faith in Christ. Whether you’re from Timbuktu or Timbuctoo, you’re welcome in God’s kingdom. It’s the ultimate equalizer, erasing boundaries and bridging divides.

Now, let’s talk about this whole “members of his household” thing. Picture it: you’re not just a random houseguest; you’re family. You’ve got a seat at the table, a room of your own, and a lot of love to go around. It’s the type of hospitality that warms the soul and fills the heart.

But being part of God’s household isn’t just about cozying up by the fire and sipping cocoa. Nope! It’s about rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty. Serving, loving, and caring for one another. It’s about being there for your brothers and sisters in Christ, no matter what.

How do we live out this whole “fellow citizens with the saints” gig?

Well, let me share a few tips from my journey:

1. Lean into Community: Don’t go it alone, my friend. Surround yourself with fellow citizens who will walk alongside you, cheer you on, and lift you up when you stumble. We’re stronger together. Trust me on this one.
2. Embrace Diversity: God’s kingdom is a colorful tapestry woven with threads of every shade and hue. So, let’s celebrate our diversity rather than letting it divide us. After all, variety is the spice of life, right?
3. Extend Grace Liberally: Newsflash: we’re all a work in progress, prone to mess up from time to time. So, let’s be quick to forgive, slow to judge, and generous with grace. It’s the secret sauce of community living.
4. Serve with Joy: Ever notice how serving others has a way of filling your own cup? Yeah, there’s something magical about it. So, roll up your sleeves and get busy serving your fellow citizens. Serving others will amaze you with how much joy it brings.
5. Keep Your Eyes on the Prize: When the going gets tough (and trust me, it will), keep your eyes fixed on the ultimate prize—eternity with our heavenly Father. It’s the hope that anchors our souls and keeps us pressing on, no matter what.

There you have it, my fellow citizens.

Let’s embrace our identity, lean into community, and live out our faith with boldness and grace.

After all, we’re in this together—a family bound by love, united in purpose, and destined for eternity.

Until next time, keep living out your citizenship with joy and purpose. And remember, you’re never alone in this journey called life.

With love and blessings,

Brian