For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory. (Ephesians 3:1, 7-9, 13 ESV)
God thank you for this incredible mystery and amazing work of reconciliation of both gentile and Jew to you in Christ. My ancestors were once far off and had no hope or promise from you God. But in Christ you brought hope to all people's. both gentile and Jew could be saved and inherit eternal life through Christ's in us life to all who believe.
God I thank you for the calling you gave to Paul to the Gentiles. God we would not know Christ and this hope we had in him without you calling and sending people like Paul to preach the gospel in new places to a group of people.
Lord just as you called Paul to the Gentiles I believe you are calling me and InterVarsity to the college campus to preach the gospel to college students of every background, culture religion, and ethnicity.
Paul suffered greatly for his people. And he also interceded on behalf of the Gentiles and the Jews. God I pray you use this journey to give me faith and strength to intercede and suffer for the sake of the gospel being known among college students.
I myself was once far off and following idols made by human hands. I was making excuses and living in ignorance of you God. Yet by your grace you called me to you. Use all of me-my past and my hurt to preach the gospel and the incredible power and mystery of your gospel!
Lord I confess my fear and my weakness that holds me back from fully declaring the truth of your gospel. God my heart breaks for students who are apathetic to the gospel, my heart breaks for students who know the inexpressible riches of your gospel and who have fallen at the cross and yet let the distractions of school and work and relationships separate them from you. Lord speak through me and convict hearts, turn hearts to you.
Lord let it all be for you glory, I am weak and prideful but humble me and use me, I am willing.
Amen
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