LBW #423, Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service
Devotion
The confirmand knelt at the communion rail to receive a blessing, part of the rite of Confirmation. The Pastor laid his hands on the confirmand’s head and said, “Father in heaven, for Jesus’ sake, stir up in Andrew Joseph the gift of your Holy Spirit; confirm his faith, guide his life, empower him in his serving, give him patience in suffering, and bring him to everlasting life.” He was told to respond to the blessing by saying Amen, but he responded by saying, “WOW!”
The commission as God’s called and sent people is worthy of a “WOW!” It would be overwhelming if the sender behind the blessing weren’t a very big Lord. But he is ... and his son Christ shows us the way.
Prayer
As we worship grant us vision,
Till your love’s revealing light
In its height and depth and greatness
Dawns upon our quickened sight.
Making known the needs and burdens
Your compassion bids us bear,
Stirring us to ardent service,
Your abundant life to share.