Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of
the Church
(Ephesians 1:1-10; Luke 11:47-54)
St. Paul certainly knew Ephesus. He founded the Christian community there and
returned to serve it for almost three years.
But did Paul write the Letter to the Ephesians? Most scholars today say “no.” The letter indicates a milieu of twenty years
or so after the apostle’s martyrdom. Its
references to the Church speak of a universal ministry, not a local
community. Nevertheless, the letter
touches on a few themes like Christian ministry that Paul treated in his
undisputed letters.
Today’s passage opens the letter. The writer blesses God for having sent the
world Jesus Christ. He gives special thanks
for Jesus’ sacrifice bringing redemption to those who believe. He further claims that Christ revealed God’s mysterious
plan to save the world through the Church. Toward its end the letter advises
Christians on how to live as God’s adopted children.
The letter’s origin as an epistle from Paul of Tarsus may be
spurious, but not its value or truth. Contemplating
its contents and living its instructions, we will reach the salvation it
heralds.
