The Bible constantly invites us to reflect on the dwelling place of God in the human heart, reminding us that we are not mere spectators of faith, but living temples where the Creator dwells. Two particularly illuminating biblical passages on this subject are Ephesians 2:19-22 and Jesus' encounter with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35).
Ephesians 2:19-22: Spiritual Edification
The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2 that believers are no longer “strangers and foreigners” but members of God’s family. Here we find a call to unity in Christ:
"So then you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God through the Spirit" (Ephesians 2:19-22).
This passage reveals to us that God's presence is not limited to temples made by human hands, but finds its place in every believing heart. As living stones, we are part of a spiritual building that grows in holiness and unity, cemented in Jesus Christ.
The Road to Emmaus: The Warmth of the Heart
The story of the road to Emmaus, narrated in Luke 24:13-35, wonderfully complements this idea of the divine presence within the human being. In this episode, two disciples walked discouraged after the crucifixion of Jesus, not recognizing that the Risen One walked beside them. Jesus explained the Scriptures to them and broke bread with them, at which point their eyes were opened and they recognized that it was him.
The key to this story is found in his own words: “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road and while he opened to us the Scriptures?” (Luke 24:32). This “burning” in the heart is a clear manifestation of the presence of God dwelling within the human being, igniting him with hope, faith and understanding.
Final Reflection
These two passages invite us to consider how God is not far away, but dwells within us. Ephesians 2 shows us that we are part of a spiritual building that is constantly growing, while the road to Emmaus reminds us that the divine presence can be experienced through the warmth of the heart and the illumination of the Word.
Thus, the dwelling place of God is not an abstract concept, but a tangible reality that transforms our lives. In every moment of doubt or discouragement, we can remember that we are living temples and that the Lord walks with us, igniting us with his love and truth.
Questions for Reflection:
How can you be more aware of the presence of God dwelling within you?
How can you contribute to the "spiritual building" that Paul speaks of in Ephesians?
Have you experienced any "warmth of heart" similar to that of the disciples in Emmaus? If so, what did it mean to you?
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