He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

Ephesians 1:9-10

I’m practicing deep breathing as part of daily relaxation disciplines. In my morning devotions I discovered a reason I actually can relax because it’s all going to come together—all this craziness that surrounds me. I feel relief just imagining this new reality.

Paul explained how we are beloved-by-God because of His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. He then added that He’s also going to bring unity to all things in heaven and earth—the entire cosmos! It’s like the whole creation will take in a deep breath and exhale a deep sigh of relief, simultaneously.

Sin fractured God’s grand design. That’s clear to me on a daily basis. God has a plan, however, and Christ is the one God chose to sum up the universe and restore the harmony of His entire creation. God’s plan goes beyond simple humanity to embrace the whole created order. It’s an amazing thought! Living as part of God’s plan of salvation through Jesus Christ also means we’re part of God’s gracious plan for a universe centered and reunited in Christ. 

When will all this happen? Paul also answers that question: when the times reach their fulfillment. Ah, things only appear helter-skelter. God’s got a plan. The clock is ticking. Time is moving forward. Everything is progressing in an ordered direction, even when it appears chaotic around us. It’s a comforting thought and a truth of Scripture that comforts me. I think it’s exactly what I’ll dwell upon tonight as I breathe deeply before dropping off to sleep. I encourage you to quicken your own imagination as you, too, breathe in this coming reality!

Linda Les