By Gracious Powers (ELW 626)
Devotion
We cannot publish the text for today's hymn due to copyright limitations. We apologize for the inconvenience. However, you may find a version of the text here on Hymnary.org. (Scroll down to see all four lines of music.)
The words of this hymn derive from a poem included in a letter that theologian and martyr Dietrich Bonhoeffer sent his mother on his last New Year's Day before his execution in 1945. This gift from Bonhoeffer speaks powerfully to the hope we have thanks to the Easter event. Though in a Nazi prison and aware he was likely facing execution, Bonhoeffer witnessed to the God whom he trusted, the God who sheltered him no matter what happened in his life. He wrote of the God who greeted him each new day there in the prison cell or prison yard.
Bonhoeffer did not deny the reality of the pain and difficulties and uncertain future he and others in that prison faced. His honesty and realism speak today to those oppressed and suffering. I treasure the final phrases: "We live each day in hope, with you beside us, and go with you through every coming year." May we all have such hope!
Prayer
Ever-present God, nothing can separate us from your love for us in Christ Jesus—not his crucifixion nor our own death. Strengthen our trust in you so we face each day in confidence that you never abandon us but lead us into your future. Amen.