Holy, Holy, Holy, ELW 413
Devotion
1Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee.
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
2Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee,
casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee,
which wert and art, and evermore shalt be.
3Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the eye of sinfulness thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,
perfect in pow'r, in love and purity.
4Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea.
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
In elementary school, to help us memorize the names of all 50 states, my teacher taught us a catchy tune with the states in alphabetical order. To this day I remember the song and, as a result, the state names. Music was an avenue to pass on knowledge and wisdom.
How shall we comprehend the wisdom of God? God is so awesome and beyond our comprehension. Can we even come close to knowing God?, I often wonder. Yet when the organ starts those sacred chords and the congregation begins to sing "Holy, Holy, Holy," just for a moment I feel I am in God's presence, in the midst of God's holiness. Music brings me near to God.
Does God seem far away? Perhaps music is an avenue to dwell with our Savior. What is your favorite hymn? Take time to listen to or sing it, and spend time with God.
Prayer
Creative God, we praise you for the gift of music! All your works—the earth, sky, and sea—praise your name. I add my voice. Thank you for your love and presence every day. Amen.