LBW #428, O God of Earth and Altar
Devotion
From all that terror teaches, From lies of tongue and pen,
From all the easy speeches That comfort cruel men,
From sale and profanation Of honor and the sword,
From sleep, and from damnation, Deliver us, good Lord!
LBW #428 O God of Earth and Altar (verse 2)
What does terror teach? Terror whispers that neither God nor neighbor can be trusted. Terror claims that we are the only ones who count. Terror advises us to run from reconciliation. Terror demands that we circle our wagons and view with suspicion the hand offered in peace.
Is there an antidote for terror? Yes! But we cannot manufacture it. The antidote to terror is a gift from God: the selfless love of God given us in Jesus Christ. “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18a). Terror and its teachings are overcome by love.