Behold the Host Arrayed in White, ELW 425
Devotion
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The images of this Norwegian folk song tell the story of saints who endured the suffering of this world by keeping their faith focused on the future of God's great story of salvation. Capturing the previews in the book of Revelation, we see bright, white-robed saints before the throne of light, shouting their victory cries. While living in this world, these immigrants from the old country "wept through bitter years." They scorned worldly things. They cast seed in tears and with sighs, and now they harvest with new eyes seeing God's pattern in their seed.
We are all like immigrants who seek a better life. How extraordinary that God has an eternally splendid life for all who trust in the Savior's gift of grace. "O saints, sing with that happy throng; lift up one voice; let heaven rejoice in our redeemer's song!"
Prayer
God of love, we marvel at the vision of life beyond this world. Wash away the tears of hardship that cloud my eyes. Cleanse my soiled life with the blood of the risen Lord. Thank you for a new song and a new future and a new life with you. Amen.