Sixth Wednesday in Lent Devotion

“Love so Amazing, so divine…”                   Sixth Wednesday in Lent - March 24, 2021

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

LSB 425 – When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

(Verse 4 of this week’s hymn served as inspiration for today’s devotion.)

To say that this past year has been difficult would be an understatement. We have experienced so many different losses – from loss of our daily routines, loss of face-to-face interactions and celebrations with family and friends, to the loss of loved ones, loss of jobs, loss of mental and spiritual health. These few examples don’t even begin to scratch the surface. No doubt the circumstances have filled many hearts with anxiety, worry and fear. 

I too have felt and feel many of the same anxieties, worries, and fears that countless people felt and continue to deal with day in and day out. It is these words of Paul, the words of Philippians 4:6-7, that I cling to every day. They are the words that I share with each one of you, our brothers and sisters in Christ, and our community. We cannot live each day in fear, but in grace and love in Christ.

The prophet Isaiah writes, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” We have a promise, from God Himself, that He will be our strength, our support, our comfort, and our protector. We cannot live in fear, but in the hope and love that Christ pours out to us each and every day! And that hope and love in Christ is the strongest message that we can spread to those whose lives are filled with anxiety, worry, and fear.

I want you to remember the words of Ephesians 5:2 "And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." You and I are the hands and feet of Christ, especially to the hurting people around us. I urge you to be in prayer and feel the peace that comes from our God who will never leave us or forsake us.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, You commanded the wind and waves, and they obeyed You. Speak peace to us, when we are troubled with anxiety, worry, and fear. Calm our anxious hearts and the raging storms of our spirit.  In Jesus Name, Amen.

Rev. Nathan Ruback – Grace Lutheran Chapel