Paul concludes his letter to the Ephesian church with these words:
21 So that you also may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are, and that he may encourage your hearts. 23 Peace be to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible.
Paul began this letter reminding his readers and us of this great masterpiece God has planned and put together in Christ: the Church. We cannot see how beautiful it is, because we are not in the heavens, with God the Father and God the Son and their angels looking down on it. So Paul tries to give us just a glimpse. He has then told us what we need to do: we need to humbly and lovingly do all we can to keep it together; to keep it clean and beautiful by living holy lives; to carry out our part in the body, in the household, while viewing the other parts, the other members, as gifts; to stand together in prayer, realizing that the enemy is trying to do all he can to invade the household, and tear this masterpiece to shreds. If there is one thing Paul's parting words add it is this: "I want to know that you are okay, and I want you to know that I am okay." It is like a parting toast, where the bottle is filled with peace, love, and grace. Paul says: "Here's to us, the church. May we all sense, though separated, the peace of God that all is well with one another. May the love of God, that drives us to do whatever is best for one other, fill our hearts and fill the room. May the grace of God in Christ enable us to do whatever it is He has called us to do. Amen."
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